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Crime Prevention Tip:

Preventing Car Break-Ins

One of the most common crimes in Lakewood is the crime of first-degree criminal trespass. In everyday terms, this means having your car broken into. This type of crime often happens in places that have a large number of parked cars such as shopping centers or apartment complex parking lots. The good news is that there are a number of common sense steps that you can take to reduce the chance that you will be a victim of this crime.

Preventing a car break-in:

• Lock your car doors. This is as simple as it sounds, but you would be surprised at how much is stolen from cars with unlocked doors. Of course, locked doors don't do much good if you leave the windows down, so roll up windows.
• Don't leave anything of value in the car. The purse or golf clubs that are visible through the window make an inviting target. If you have to leave items in the car, at least put them out of sight in the trunk. The duffle bag with dirty gym clothes might not be of significant value to you. But a thief who doesn't know what is inside might target your car hoping to find checkbooks, credit cards, palm pilots or other items. Always take these personal items into your home when you park for the evening.
• Use safety features if you have them. Examples of these features include activating your car alarm, removing stereo faceplates and putting steering wheel locking devices in place.
• Park in a well-lit area that is visible to others. If your car is broken into, it is important that you report this to the police department. The suspect's fingerprints might be found on your car, or other evidence might be discovered.
• Other measures. If you are a victim, notify the police and make a report. Notify neighbors, neighborhood groups such as Neighborhood Watch or the business or apartment management. Report suspicious or criminal behavior.