Police Chief On Break-Ins: What You Can Do To Avoid Being A Victim

Olivette Police Chief Rick Knox is responding to a series of car break-ins which have surfaced in recent months, and just this week. This is his open letter to residents of Olivette:

At approximately 5:00 AM on  Tuesday, September 4, 2012, a resident in the 9400 Block of Bonhomme Woods witnessed a suspect  attempting to get into his vehicle’s trunk.  Officers were called to the area, however they were unable to locate the individuals responsible for this crime.

, one vehicle was broken into on Bon Aire Drive by smashing the window and taking a woman’s purse which was lying on the front seat in plain view. The purse was found in the Chevy Chase subdivision on Enfield Drive. The thieves are targeting mostly unlocked vehicles, and taking valuables such as purses, wallets, cell phones, computers, GPS equipment, cameras, and loose change 

In recent months, the Olivette Police Department has investigated a rash of vehicle break ins. The incidents did not appear to target anyone specifically, but were crimes of opportunity. Although several suspects have been apprehended, our investigations are ongoing.

The Olivette Police Department would like to remind our residents to keep their garage doors closed and their windows and doors locked, even when they are home. Also, do not leave any valuables in your locked or unlocked vehicles.

The reason for this message is to remind residents that there are steps they can take to help prevent these crimes:

1. When you leave your home, make sure ALL windows and doors are locked.

2. If you will be gone after dark, leave a few interior/exterior lights on.

3. Keep your garage door closed when you are not home and during the night.

4. If you have a home security system, use it. We believe that, in at least one burglary, the suspects were unable to steal anything from a home because the security system scared them off.

5. If you observe a suspicious person/vehicle in your neighborhood, DO NOT HESITATE to call the police IMMEDIATELY. Do not wait until the person/vehicle has left the area. It is our job to investigate such subjects.

6. Trim your landscaping so that officers and neighbors have a clear view of your windows/doors.

7. Do not leave valuables of any kind, including keys, inside your vehicle. Lock the vehicle doors when you exit.

8. Create an inventory spreadsheet of your valuable jewelry, electronics, lawn tools, etc. to include the brand name, model number, serial number and photograph, when applicable. The likelihood of recovering items that may be stolen is greatly increased if you can provide the Police Department with that information.

By implementing a few simple steps, you can reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim.