A recent run of car thefts and vehicle break in's has left residents with many unanswered questions, missing property, and high frustrations.

Nearly two weeks ago, a string of thefts from Locke Crescent in Okotoks, left one resident to speak out.

Jennifer Fraser woke up to her vehicle ransacked, soaked in spilled beer, and contents missing that meant more to her than the purpose they served.

The vandals had stolen halters, lead ropes, and three antique hunting knives that had belonged to her father.

Fraser says a teen she works with told her the thefts that happened on her street are part of an alleged new past-time for youth in town.

"She said 'Well I'm going to find out who was car hopping last night and let them know they're in trouble. 'So I said "What do you mean car hopping?' and apparently it is a past time that youth go through and find the vehicles with their doors unlocked, and that's what some of them do in the evenings."

Fraser's frustrations continued when she learned the Okotoks RCMP can't do much to help victims of what could be 'car hopping' out.

Jennifer told the RCMP officer that she called the morning of the crime, that those responsible had left a beer can and a receipt in her vehicle, hoping to have it finger printed and collected for evidence.

In reply, Fraser says the officer told her it's not something they can put money and resources into unfortunately.

"I was told, it's not a crime scene and it's not something they can put money into, for finger printing." Fraser recalls "I was told that if I wanted to go ahead, go into the detachment and report it as mischief than I could."

A word of warning from Fraser, who has been the victim of a hit and run, and two recent break and enter vehicle thefts, says it's always better to be safe than sorry.

"Absolutely check your doors and make sure they're locked, because it's not like these guys aren't breaking windows to get in. For me the only two times I've probably left my vehicle unlocked happen to be the two times they've hit it.  Also, don't leave items in your car, it's just not worth it."

Fraser says she would like her fathers three knives back, as they meant a great deal to her.

She shares that she will be saving the beer can and receipt that she discovered in her vehicle, in case other affected residents find evidence as well.

Questions, comments, or story ideas? Email us at news@okotoksonline.com