Vehicle Burglaries On The Rise

Date: July 28, 2010
Contact: Press Information Officer Mike Dekowski
Subject: Vehicle Burglaries On The Rise

Whittier, CA – Over the past several months, the police department has recognized a rising trend in the amount of vehicle burglaries and thefts from vehicles occurring throughout the city. The thefts are typically occurring between the late evening and early morning hours. In an effort to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of a vehicle theft or burglary, the police department is seeking the public’s assistance in this matter.

The Whittier Police Department has started a campaign to educate the public of this trend through the distribution of post cards and fliers throughout the city. The post cards and fliers urge the public to lock their vehicles and hide all valuables to reduce the risk of becoming a victim.

Although not leaving valuables in your car is the best option, we understand that this is not always possible. If you leave valuable items visible in your car, you automatically make yourself a target for theft. If you must leave valuable items in your car while out and about, place the items out of sight before reaching your destination or move them inconspicuously. This includes packages, backpacks, gym bags, GPS units, MP3 players, and so forth. Someone may be watching when you put items under a seat or throw something over them. An opportunistic thief will also be on the lookout for packing valuables in the trunk, and can break into your car the minute you're out of sight.

The public is urged to call the police to report any suspicious activity, particularly persons seen wandering around parking lots or neighborhoods and/or looking into vehicles as they walk by. When asked about rise in vehicle burglaries, Police Chief David Singer said, “Car Burglars are looking for an opportunity to steal. We need to remove that opportunity by removing valuables from our vehicles".

The Whittier Police Department is committed to educating citizens on how they can take precautions to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of theft. For more additional information please visit the department’s website at www.whittierpd.org.


Additional media inquiries may be directed to Officer Mike Dekowski at 562-505-6983.
-END-