ABBEVILLE, La. — The Vermilion Parish Sheriff's Office says that it has been busy investigating cases of overnight vehicle burglaries over the last few weeks and is offering tips on how to prevent it.
According to a release from Sheriff Mike Couvillon, vehicle burglaries are one of the most preventable crimes and the most concerning element is that these crimes are happening in people’s own driveways.
Couvillon says that in some instances vehicle owners have taken the necessary steps to minimize their chances of becoming a victim, however statistics show that the majority of burglaries occurred because individuals simply failed to secure their vehicles and property.
The VPSO says the following tips can reduce the risk of vehicle burglaries:
- If available, always park your vehicle in a locked garage.
- Always lock the doors to your vehicle, even when you away from the vehicle for just a short time.
- Remove all valuables from your vehicle. If you can’t take personal property with you, lock items in the trunk. Do not place them under the seat. This includes your purse or wallet, DVD’s, books, cash, keys, cell phone, iPod, laptop, garage door opener, gym bag, briefcase, jewelry, tools, packages, etc. If a thief breaks into your vehicle and steals your garage door opener and keys, they have access to your home.
- Do not leave any mail in your vehicle. These items have your name, address and possibly contain personal financial information.
- Remove “pull out” style stereos and/or removable faceplates of stereos.
- Park in well lit areas. At home, park your vehicle near porch lights if you cannot park in a garage.
- Install motion detection lights which will illuminate your driveway at night.
- Set any alarm or anti-theft device that is installed on your vehicle.
- Consider installing recorded video surveillance (could be very valuable when something happens).
- Watch each other’s homes and property closely, reporting anything suspicious.
- Call the Sheriff’s office or your local law enforcement agency on any suspicious vehicles or person in the neighborhood always.
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