SPPD warns of rising number of thefts from unlocked vehicles

Lt. Saviers said that vehicle owners have a responsibility to make it harder - or even impossible - to become victims of such thefts. “Firstly, if you have valuables take them out of your car when you get home, when you’re leaving the vehicle for the day or the evening. And if you choose to leave valuables in your vehicle, make sure the vehicle is locked and parked in a safe place.” Otherwise it will be easy to become a victim: “Somebody is out there just looking for opportunity and trying car doors... if it opens they go inside.”Leaving valuables out in plain sight is also an invitation to thieves. “If people do leave their possessions in their car and lock it, they should still try to conceal them as much as possible.” It’s up to the public to help the SPPD reduce the number of these incidents and protect their property.Items taken from vehicles can contain identification or personal information that can lead to identity theft, or the use of checks, ATM/debit or credit cards, even before the owner is aware that the items are missing. If you see or hear any suspicious activity, contact the SPPD by calling 911.