Jennifer Pritchett
Northern News Services

NNSL (Nov 11/98) - Police are getting a handle on a series of break-ins around the city following several months of investigation.

RCMP have laid 17 charges against five adults and two young offenders, all Yellowknife residents. One adult charged, however, has since left the territories.

Police say charges are pending against a third young offender. Sgt. Marlin Degrand said one of the adults is currently in custody.

"The rest are still at large pending court," he said.

The break-ins, which took place at six different businesses and residences around the city, occurred from June 5 to Oct. 6.

Incidents include a theft at a Wilkinson Drive home, two at a Finlayson Drive home, one at a Northern Heights apartment, a mail theft and mischief at Fraser Towers, two break-ins at Really Big Video and a theft of cadet rifles at the Royal Oak Recreation Hall.

Degrand said a great deal of the stolen property has been recovered, including all the cadet rifles and air guns.

He also said the investigation is continuing and police expect that more property will be found and it's possible more charges will be laid.