NEIGHBORHOOD SECURITY ALERT: Centerville Vehicle Breaks

CENTERVILLE- Barnstable Police are encouraging the public to be more vigilant securing personal belongings inside of their vehicles.   

Since January 1, 2007 there has been over 60 vehicle break-ins, mostly concentrated in the Centerville area…   

These have been reported as Crimes of Opportunity where the perpetrator has found vehicle doors left unlocked and vulnerable.  Thefts have been relatively petty, ashtray change, clothing, sunglasses, and other personal effects…

But Police are advising owners to take steps to deter further criminal activity. Simple vehicle security measures include:            

          -lock all doors, especially overnight…           

          -hide valuables out of plain view, possible inside the vehicle’s trunk…           

          -park in a well lit area, preferable off the street, away from public access… 

Other security suggestions:            

          -LIGHTS: if possible, leave all outdoor lights on.

          -report all suspicious sounds on your property to the Barnstable Police as they happen…many people recall having heard a strange sound the morning after a break, when it’s too late…           

          -Be aware of your environment.  Are people trespassing on your property…? Do you notice unusual footprints in the sand, gates left open, etc…           

          -Are your pets suddenly acting differently…?           

          -DO NOT PERSONALLY CONFRONT SUSPICIOUS PERSONS, STAY SECURE WITHIN YOUR HOME AND CALL THE POLICE IMMEDIATELY!