For generations of Wellington County residents, a smash and grab at a local retailer hit close to home.
A quick text and photo flipped to us on Sunday morning of shattered windows at Ron Wilkins Jewellers told the tale. Brazen thieves in the early hours left quite a mess for the merchants and their staff.
For locals who frequent the store on special occasions for extraordinary service and quality merchandise, there is a sense of disbelief and sincere compassion for their plight.
The value of the loot they stole paled in comparison to the cost of new windows, according to Graham and Amy Wilkins. In a measured response they were grateful that no one was hurt and apart from the inconvenience of replacing windows and dealing with insurance, their business will return to normal soon.
Without diminishing this tragedy on St. Andrew Street, it is just the latest in a string of occurrences where thieves rock the finite faith many of us have in humanity. We can’t recall a time where break and enters into vehicles, homes and businesses has been so rife.
A good friend was also a victim this weekend, with trucks stolen under the watchful eyes of cameras. Thieves have vehicle theft down to a science and they are so quick there is little chance of stopping the crime in progress. That actually might be a good thing, considering the ties with organized crime that go along with luxury thefts and vehicle exports overseas.
There is little doubt then why so many victims embark on the stages of grief having dealt with a break-in or theft.
Disbelief, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance – these are all elements of the journey to reconcile the intrusion of strangers into somewhat sheltered lives. It’s an invasion of private space and very unsettling for victims.
Most Canadians were raised to honour the commandment “Thou shalt not steal,” regardless of religious bent. Unfortunately, that sage advice has been watered down over the years as rationalizations are made.
Substance abuse, poverty in the extreme or simply bad actors that don’t know any better, should not be free passes for taking what doesn’t belong to you. It’s pretty simple in that context.
Sentences for offenders need to be harsher because they clearly have turned into a fearless lot. The tricky part will be nabbing perpetrators and making the case to confirm guilt. In the current climate we question if the tools are even available to put a dent in these types of crimes.
Answers on how to combat this problem are illusive, but action is needed.
