Full Text
Are any of these items visible in YOUR vehicle? Cell Phone GPS Unit mp3 players or Music CDs Purse and/or wallet Shopping bags, clothes, or other merchandise Laptop, tablet or other electronic equipment Sporting equipment or Tools Checkbooks or other papers for identity theft If so, a THIEF could easily steal them in just seconds. Ensure your car is locked and has no valuables in sight. You CAN prevent vehicle break‐ins A vehicle break‐in is the theft of property from your automobile. In 2013, there were 768 vehicle break‐ins and 320 vehicle thefts reported in the City of Puyallup. So far in 2014, there have been 492 vehicle break‐ins & 242 thefts reported. Vehicle break‐ins only take a few moments – especially when the car is left unlocked or when thieves smash windows to grab items they have seen inside! Criminals often drive through parking lots looking for vehicles with open windows and/or unlocked doors. Vehicle prowlers also look for valuables left in the open such as cell phones, laptops, iPods and purses. If you must leave valuables in your car, conceal those items from view before arriving at your parking space, if possible. Be aware that vehicle break‐ins commonly lead to other crimes such as fraud and identity theft, so limit the amount of personal information you keep in your vehicle. Record serial numbers of your valuables and keep them in a safe place (not inside your vehicle). If you see any suspicious persons or activity, call 9‐1‐1. For additional information contact the Problem Oriented Policing Unit at [PHONE REDACTED] or visit us at www.puyalluppolice.org