A Chatham, Ontario, homeowner found an unexpected person inside the house after police say a woman entered through an unlocked back door and went into the kitchen.
The incident happened on Birmingham Avenue at about 8:26 a.m. on June 16, according to a Chatham-Kent Police media release. Police said the woman took food from the kitchen and ate it inside the residence.
The homeowner found the woman and asked her to leave. Police said she left the house, then entered an unlocked vehicle parked in the driveway.
For anyone who leaves a back door open during the day or keeps a vehicle unlocked at home, the incident is a simple reminder that a quiet driveway can still become part of a police call.
The Woman Allegedly Entered Through The Back Door
Police did not report damage to the door or say the woman forced her way inside. Their release said she entered through an unlocked back door before going into the kitchen. According to Sydenham Current, the woman is 46 years old and from Chatham-Kent. Her name was not released in the report.
Once outside, police said the woman entered an unlocked vehicle in the driveway and found more food inside. The homeowner yelled at her to get out of the vehicle, police said. She complied, then stayed at the end of the driveway until officers arrived.
Police Charged Her With Breaking And Entering
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The woman was arrested and charged with breaking and entering to commit theft. Police said she was taken to Chatham-Kent Police Service headquarters and held for bail.
Chatham-Kent Police also publish break-and-enter prevention guidance that focuses on doors, locks, lighting, windows, and vehicles. Their guidance advises residents not to leave valuables in vehicles in plain view and to report suspicious people or broken locks.