The Grenada Police Department is urging citizens to secure all belongings inside vehicles following a rash of break-ins throughout the city.
The GPD is investigating the string of auto burglaries that have occurred within the city over the past week. Last Friday morning, several auto burglaries were reported in the Windmill Street and Windmill Cove area. Chief George Douglas said citizens should remain vigilant and cautious of their surroundings.
“In the events of the recent auto burglaries occurring in Grenada, we’re advising citizens to make sure their vehicles and valuables are secure,” Douglas said. “By securing the vehicles, it will assist law enforcement in this matter.”
July is National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month and Douglas said the summer has proven time and time again to be the top season for car thefts and break-ins.
“Suspects that prowl are opportunists,” Douglas said. “Once they see something laying around, that’s where they target.”
Douglas said if a suspicious person is detected on property or around a vehicle citizens should contact the authorities.
“You should never try to take the matter into your own hands,” Douglas concluded.
Common things that car prowlers look for:
• Cars that are parked in secluded and dark areas.
• Cars that have been sitting in one area for a significant amount of time.
• Owners who have a predictable routine and park at a place often for long lengths of time.
• Automobiles that have damages, particularly in areas like windows, trunks, and doors.
• Parking places with little or no witnesses.
• Camera-free areas.
• Cars with lots of visible items to steal.
• Vehicles with expensive items in sight — stereos, phones, wallets, purses, tools, jewelry, full shopping bags, etc.
