Cpl. Phil Graham and Ringo, a Belgian Shepherd, from Peace River, Alta. assisted the Yellowknife RCMP in apprehending a suspect in 38 residential and six commercial break-ins.

Wednesday evening the RCMP arrested a male suspect shortly after two residential break and enters. Police believe the suspect is associated with 36 residential and six commercial break-ins other in just over two months. No charges have been laid.

Uniformed and plainclothes officers were assisted by Cpl. Phil Graham and police dog tracker Ringo from the RCMP Peace River Police Dog Service.

"One of the profiles we have is tracking, which is following where a person has walked by both human scent and ground disturbance," said Graham.

"And hopefully we will either arrest the individual, locate evidence along the track or gather other information as a result of where the track leads."

Since police made a public plea for help Nov. 9, 23 additional homes have been ravaged by thieves who tend to strike during the daytime and early evening.

Sgt. Al McCambridge said the intruders typically gain entry through unlocked doors and windows or by breaking through doors.

They are especially favoring cash and jewelry and other items that can be quickly disposed of. The RCMP are trying to determine if the stolen items are being sold on the city streets.

McCambridge is urging anyone who witnesses any kind of suspicious behaviour to immediately report it to the RCMP. Most of the recent calls from the public came after the fact.

"We really need the assistance of the public because they are reporting suspicious activity sometimes after the fact and not as it's happening.

"The information is stale, it's not immediate and it leaves the trail cold."

Sgt. Phil Johnson of the Criminal Operations Branch said people should not hesitate to contact the RCMP if they see anything peculiar, no matter how minor it may seem.

"Sometimes people don't call because they think they are bothering us. It could be a small piece of the puzzle that we need to solve (the crime)."

Protecting your home

Staff Sgt. Wylie Grimm, with the RCMP's community policing branch, said there are plenty of ways to discourage thieves from targeting your home.

Lights should be turned on when you're not at home, high-quality locks with deadbolts work wonders, and even consider leaving the radio or television on during the day to make your home appear occupied.

If you are going to be away for a few days ensure your driveway and steps are shovelled regularly and ask a neighbor to collect your mail and keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour.

All it takes is common sense and don't hesitate to report anything that may seem even a little unusual. If your house is invaded, make sure you report it right away.