Watchful neighbour helps foil break-in attempt

A neighbour’s keen eye and Surrey RCMP’s quick response has resulted in charges against two men for a break and enter in progress, in South Surrey. On November 24, 2020 shortly after 2:30 p.m., Surrey RCMP received a report from a concerned citizen of suspicious activity at a neighboring residence, in the 13300-block of 14A Avenue.

Two men were seen attempting to break-in to the home and eventually making entry. As a result of the timely report from the neighbour, police were able to immediately start rolling in the direction of the crime in progress. Officers were en-route to the location, even prior to the home’s alarm being triggered by the suspects.

The caller stayed on the phone with dispatchers, providing a detailed account of the suspects’ actions, until officers arrived at the residence within minutes of receiving the 9-1-1 call. Officers intercepted the two suspects before they had an opportunity to flee. Both men were arrested and held in custody for court.

On November 25, 2020, 34-year-old, Leo Hamm, and 31-year-old, Kalman Hlavacs, were charged with break and enter. This is a great example of how valuable witnesses are, particularly during a crime in progress. The prompt actions of this neighbour and the quick response of officers led to the arrests of these suspects, says Corporal Joanie Sidhu.

Securing your home with an alarm system is also a great deterrent for break-ins and serves as a method to alert neighbours and police during crimes in progress.