It was a light agenda for the Estevan Board of Police Commissioners yesterday but there were a few items of concern.

Thefts of motor vehicles saw an increase of 250% in the month of January.

"That was in relation to an organized motor vehicle theft ring," explained Police Chief, Paul Ladouceur, "and that investigation is ongoing."

"It's subsided substantially this month so we're not seeing anywhere near what we saw last month. Last month it was a distinct group of individuals that were targetting the area and we're making good headway on that investigation. They were targeting pickup trucks here."

He added that Weyburn and Regina also saw an increase in vehicles believed to be linked to the same group of people.

Chief Ladouceur also believes that the number of increased vehicle thefts have a lot to do with people leaving their keys in their vehicles. 

"One case, in particular, was a vehicle left with the keys sitting in the vehicle, it was almost a brand new vehicle. It's unfortunate. 

He added that there is a liability issue as well.

"People leaving their vehicles running with the keys in the ignition and a child jumps in it, you can imagine what could happen."

Also on the agenda was the bylaw report.

"We're back where we should be now that the new bylaw officer is in place."

"The only concern raised is that during functions at Affinity Place, we're seeing people not abiding by the parking rules. They're parking without passes. We are going to be stepping up enforcement. We're going to be bringing in our bylaw officer in the evenings for events and we're going to start ticketing."

"The staff parking, it's not just a luxury for the staff, they're trying to run the event."Carla Dayman was sworn in yesterday as a Special Constable - Communications/Dispatch (photo courtesy @Estevan_Police)

The EPS also saw a new member join their ranks in Special Constable Carla Dayman who will begin her new job as the Communications Officer/Dispatcher. 

Ladouceur also mentioned that the new website should be up and running soon and will feature online forms.