Their Jayco Jayflight 288HS camper had disappeared from the site. It was last seen be a friend at the campground on Thursday, October 5, and noticed missing the next day, so it was most likely taken overnight. The site was in a bit of a mess, so this also alerted the caretaker that something was wrong.

Verplanche said they planned to leave the camper over the winter, as they had done the same the previous year without incident. She added she is not even sure of its value, saying they only purchased it in 2019, so they have only owned it for a few summers.

“I had a kind of sinking feeling in my stomach when I heard. There was anger that someone would take something that did not belong to them, but that seems to be the way the world is going.”

Stealing a camper is not likely something done on a whim. As Verplanche said, unless you had a truck, you would not be able to take it, or at least not very far. Theirs had a bumper hitch, which is a little easier to hook up than some. Her husband Andy had put a lock on the hitch, but she said if someone had the time and tools, they could disable that.

“I think they would have to be somewhat prepared,” she said. “It’s hard to say.”

According to the RCMP, they received the report on October 7, and they speculate it was taken from between October 4 and 7. Anyone with any information is to call their office in Souris at 204-483-2854.

As well as the camper itself, Verplanche said they have items inside they wish, in hindsight, they had taken out and returned home.

The RCMP investigation is ongoing. Verplanche said they definitely hope to have the camper returned, and returned in good shape. The fear is it will be cut up and sold in pieces. She added if they have it returned or if they have another camper in the future, they will certainly look at putting GPS on it.

Verplanche said people have been very good about sharing information in regards to the theft and asks the public to call the police if they have any information, especially if they see it on abandoned property or even look at their own, as you never know where something is stashed. 

“I hope it’s returned in decent condition. If you happen to see a Jayco Jayflight, let the RCMP know.”

by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff