DISTRICT A15 (CHARLESTOWN) REPORTS INCREASEIN MOTOR VEHICLE CRIME
From January 1, 2007 to present, statistics indicate that District A15 (Charlestown) is experiencing an increase in Motor Vehicle crime. The statistics include:
· Car Breaks: 13 incidents
· Auto Thefts: 16 incidents
· Vandalism: 28 incidents
The Boston Police would like to take this opportunity to remind residents that motor vehicle breaks are among the most easily preventable crimes. They are typically crimes of opportunity, committed by thieves looking for valuables left unattended. Taking a few simple steps can often discourage these thieves. Here’s how you can protect yourself against motor vehicle breaks.
DO NOT LEAVE VALUABLES IN YOUR CAR WHERE OTHERS CAN SEE THEM. Valuable items, such as your laptop, iPod, etc. should never be left in the front or back seat of your vehicle. Always take your valuables with you, or move them into the trunk.
· Lock your doors and windows. Even if your window is only slightly open, it makes your car an easier target for thieves. A thief will insert a wire into a slightly open window to pop up the door lock.
· Replace your standard door lock buttons with tapered ones. Tapered door lock buttons make it more difficult for a thief to hook a wire or device onto the door lock button to pop it open.
· Invest in an anti-theft device. When you buy a new or used car, checking to see if it has an anti-theft device is as important as checking the engine. If there isn\’t one, you should have one installed.
If you observe any unusual activity or observe a car theft or a break-in, call 911.
