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The project also includes tools given to frequent victims to track stolen items. Using a property-marking device called the Trace Pen, each with its own unique serial number that can be digitally registered, victims can mark their items and increase the likelihood stolen property is eventually returned to them if found by police.

The devices are available through local citizens on patrol and rural crime watch groups.

RCMP said they will follow up with Albertans who have been victimized the most by break-and-enters, to help police better understand what happened, provide crime prevention advice and, in some cases, arrange a customized home security assessment to prevent future thefts.

“With the launch of this new initiative, the Alberta RCMP and our partners will be working directly with those who are repeatedly targeted,” said Alberta RCMP commanding officer and deputy commissioner Curtis Zablocki. “By providing them with tools and education on how to protect their property, we will ensure our citizens feel safe in this province.”

Last year, the province responded to residents’ concerns with a $10-million investment, which established four district teams tasked with tackling rural crime.

Ganley said rural property crime has been down month over month compared with 2017.

“Our seven-point strategy helped to hire more officers and more civilian staff. It also provided those officers with more tools to strategically and effectively use existing resources,” she said.