For the Lavin family, who immigrated to Burnaby, B.C., from Ireland six months ago, Monday seemed just like any other day.

In the afternoon, Karen Lavin loaded her two young children, aged four and six, into the car and drove off to pick up their father Daragh from work.

But when the family returned to their Venables Street home, they found a veritable Grinch had broken in and pinched all of the presents from under their Christmas tree.

"We saw what happened as soon as we got in," Lavin told ctvbc.ca.

According to police, a burglar forced his way into the house through the front door. Once inside, the thief stole the family's television, computer, jewelry and presents.

"It's a horrible violated feeling," Lavin said. "The children were very disappointed, especially when they realized their presents from their family and friends were gone."

Karen Lavin said the family has never experienced anything like this, but that they are determined not to let it ruin Christmas.

"We're not changing our Christmas plans," Lavin said. "We're going to celebrate, have our turkey together and open the presents from Santa Claus."

"We just have to pick up the pieces and get on with our lives."

The Lavin's lived in Canada previously, during the 1990s and early 2000s, before moving back to Europe.

The family returned to Canada in July 2009.

The Santa defence

RCMP Cpl. Ted De Jager said the best thing families can do to prevent theft at this time of year is to keep presents out of sight until they're going to be opened.

"The best way is to say that Santa comes on Christmas Eve," De Jager said.

For families who prefer to keep presents under the tree, De Jager says it's vital to keep blinds and curtains closed to avoid getting spotted by opportunistic thieves.

"Thieves will know that there are presents under the tree, and they'll look for a house that doesn't seem to have anybody home."

De Jager said forensic investigators are just starting to gather evidence at the Lavin house, but that there is a small chance they will be reunited with their possessions.

"Sometimes it happens," De Jager said. "Right now, we're appealing to the public that if they saw anything to come forward."

Anyone with information can contact the Burnaby RCMP at 604-294-7922 or CRIMESTOPPERS at 1-800-222-8477.