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SANTA BARBARA, CA – 11/29/2007. SBPD has seen a sizeable spike in reported auto burglaries over the last two months. Instead of the usual 15-20 cases reported monthly, the number has jumped to more than 40 this month alone. The vast number of these cases are “smash and grab,” where suspects can get in and get out in seconds. The method used to break the window varies from pry bars, other tools that leave no trace, and even rocks or bricks. The hardest hit areas include: The downtown parking garages; streets surrounding SBCC at 721 Cliff Drive; and upper Eastside neighborhoods. However, window smash auto burglaries have been reported in many other areas as well.

What virtually all the auto burglaries have in common is that valuables were left in plain sight. The most common attractant for thieves has been I-Pod music devices, followed by purses, wallets, backpacks, and other small electronics. In some cases, the burglary victim hid their I-Pod but left the distinctive white colored cord plugged into the stereo. In other cases, it appears the suspect may have watched the victim stuff a purse or valuables under the seat before leaving the vehicle unattended. Many, but not all of the thefts, occurred during the hours of darkness.

SBPD has arrested three people in the past two weeks in connection with smash-and-grab auto burglaries. These arrests have helped but not stopped the thefts from occurring.

SBPD warns the public that thieves are roaming parking lots looking for valuables and opportunities to strike. As recently shown in an SBPD demonstration, a suspect can break automotive glass, snatch valuables left in plain sight, and flee the scene in mere seconds. SBPD urges the public to take the following safety precautions:

–Do not leave valuables or evidence of valuables inside vehicle passenger areas. This includes I-Pod cords, backpacks, or hastily hidden purses.
–Lock valuables in the truck before arriving at your destination.
–Be aware of your surroundings.
–Report suspicious activity to police.

Remember that thieves roam parking lots looking for targets and opportunities. Be safety conscious–do not become an auto burglary victim.

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