Cars not locked in crime spree
NINE cars parked on the side of the road or in private driveways targeted by thieves during an early-morning crime spree at Blackmans Bay were all unlocked.
Detective Sergeant Lee Carr said a number of items were stolen from the vehicles between about 2am and 5am yesterday.
“Kingston Criminal Investigation Branch are investigating nine vehicles entered on Crystal Downs Drive and the surrounding streets,” she said.
“All of the nine vehicles entered were unlocked which makes it timely for police to remind vehicle owners to protect their belongings.
“Thieves are often opportunistic and will take advantage of anyone who leaves their vehicle or belongings unlocked and unattended.”
Detective Sergeant Carr said locking your car and keeping valuables out of sight were two simple steps that could prevent burglars from targeting your belongings.
In June, vandals slashed the tyres of 22 vehicles parked on Waratah St in Kingston and Pearsall Ave in Blackmans Bay, causing between $8000 and $10,000 damage. Kingborough Mayor Dean Winter yesterday said more surveillance cameras were being installed across the suburbs.
“While Kingborough has a low crime rate, we have seen an increase over the past 12 months,” he said.
“Council is working with police through its community safety committee and youth services team to deliver projects like the installation of new CCTV cameras across Blackmans Bay and Kingston. Sadly, in 2019, everyone needs to remember to lock their vehicle.”
An RACT Insurance spokesman said it’s best to look for a well-lit area on the street to deter potential thieves if it’s not possible to park in a driveway or garage overnight.
“A high percentage of thefts of items from cars are opportunistic, meaning many wouldbe thieves won’t go much further than checking if a car door is unlocked — if it is locked they will simply walk away,” the spokesman said.
Anyone with information in relation to the burglaries is asked to contact Kingston CIB on 6173 2076 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000.