6/21/07

Chief Garrett warns citizens against auto theft and break-ins
By Chief Randy Garrett

I would like to ask all citizens to assist all Clarendon County law enforcement in preventing theft from automobile and theft of automobiles.   

Keeping the citizens informed of how to prevent crime is one of the most important things that any police department can do.

At the same time, one of the most important things that citizens can do is to take action and help prevent crime by taking the opportunity away from the criminals.

Suspects can very easily break the windows out of cars and remove everything from electronic items to personal items. Please remove valuables from plain view and secure them in your truck or house.
 
We are asking all citizens to take a few minutes to read the attached list of suggestions and if anyone has information that could help capture person(s) responsible for any criminal activity please call Crimestoppers at 888-559-TIPS (8477).

Don’t be a victim.  Here are a few simple measures that you can take to avoid being a victim of theft from your car or car theft itself:

Never leave your car running, even if you will only be gone for a minute. Vehicles are commonly stolen at convenience stores, gas stations, ATMs or on cold mornings when the owner leaves the vehicle running to warm up in their own driveway.

Always take your keys. Never leave them in the car. Many of the vehicles stolen have the keys left in them.

Always lock your car. A large majority of vehicles stolen or broken into were left unlocked.

Park in well-lighted visible areas.

Again, don’t leave valuables in plain view inside your vehicle.

Please remember that crime is an opportunity and it can be avoided. While we make every effort to deter these crimes and to capture those responsible, we need the help of the community:  

• Be vigilant
• Be a nosy neighbor
• Join a neighborhood watch
• Report all suspicious activity.

If you would like to receive free crime prevention training or a free security analysis of your home or business, please contact the Manning Police Department at 435-8859.