By Lookout Staff
March 18 – The current economic slump is spurring a rash of auto burglaries in Santa Monica, particularly Downtown, and in many cases the victims may be enabling the criminals, police warn.
“Auto burglaries are mostly crimes of opportunity,” Santa Monica police said in a statement. “They are prolific because people make it far too easy for a thief to steal their valuables by leaving them in plain view.”
To play it safe, motorists should place valuables in their trunk before arriving at a location where people might be watching, police said.
In addition, the vehicle registration should be kept with their driver’s license instead of in the car, police said.
Even when planning to be gone only briefly, motorists should close the car windows and lock the doors.
“An open door or window allows a thief a quick and quiet way to steal your property,” police said. “When the window is only slightly open, it also makes the thief’s job easier.”
After parking motorists should remember to set the alarm system, since the GPS and other equipment such as airbags and stereos can be targets.
They also should try to park in well-lit areas where their vehicle is visible to others.
“Thieves look for vehicles that they can enter with the least possibility of being seen or caught by citizens and authorities,” police said.
Police suggest that the following precautions be taken:
- Be aware of your surroundings prior to leaving your vehicle.
- Be on the lookout
- Report suspicious people or vehicles in your neighborhood.
- Report suspicious persons wandering around looking into vehicles as they walk.
- Wait until your security gate or garage door closes before leaving your residential parking area.
If the crime is “in progress,” call 9-1-1. To report an auto burglary that has already occurred and if the suspect is gone, call our non-emergency number: (310) 458-8491.
