Carlsbad Police officers were patrolling recreation areas throughout the city Monday in search of vehicles that appear to be easy targets for criminals.
During the vehicle security awareness and crime prevention program called “Operation Report Card,” officers will place notices on vehicles parked at parks, beaches and other recreation areas informing owners whether unattended property was visible inside their vehicle, which could create an opportunity for crime. The notice also contains vehicle crime prevention tips.
“The goal of the program is to create a police/community collaboration that ultimately reduces the occurrences of vehicle crime,” Carlsbad Police Chief Gary Morrison said. “Effective policing takes teamwork, and together we can reduce crime and ensure a safe and secure summer for everyone.”
Carlsbad police said the program came in response to the annual spike in vehicle break-ins during summer months. Several other U.S. cities use a similar notification system.
Police offered the following tips for vehicle owners to protect their valuables:
— park where the vehicle can be seen, if possible;
— remove all property from the vehicle, thus removing the opportunity for crime;
— make sure to lock vehicles;
— park close to home and in a well-lit area, if possible;
— avoid hiding a spare key; and
— report suspicious activity to police.
—City News Service
