New Westminster Police Department is warning shoppers not to give car prowlers any early Christmas presents this December.
We hope to raise awareness about thefts from vehicles this December, says Acting Sargent Jeff Scott. “People are thinking about preparing meals and buying gifts. It’s a busy time of year and protecting yourself against theft is often the farthest thing from your mind until it’s too late.”
Customers shopping often don’t understand that theft from autos is a crime of opportunity.
“It takes two or three seconds to pop the window, grab what they can and they’re gone,” said Scott.
There will be increased police visibility in mall parking lots throughout December to discourage car prowlings. But the most important thing shoppers can do is take their valuables out of their cars.
“Not in the consoles. Not in the trunk. Thieves know shoppers are putting gifts there, so don’t risk it,” Said Crime Prevention Coordinator Shelley Cole. “Keep your gifts with you. It’s more than the loss of gifts. Think of the cost and time to deal with a broken lock or window, and the money you could have had during the holidays.”