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Decline in theft from cars encouraging

Recent crime statistics have revealed a significant decrease in theft from vehicles in Latrobe City, and the community has played a large part in the reduction.

By Latrobe City Council - 30th May 2003 - Back to News

Recent crime statistics have revealed a significant decrease in theft from vehicles in Latrobe City, and the community has played a large part in the reduction.

Latrobe City Mayor, Councillor Graeme Middlemiss, said that the fall in this type of crime was pleasing because it reflected how residents, community organisations and police could work together successfully.

"Community groups such as Neighbourhood Watch organisations, an increased willingness to report crime and suspicious behaviour and taking simple measures to secure cars and property have all contributed to this decrease in crime. The prevention message is definitely having an effect,"

Gippsland Police Crime Prevention Officer, Senior Constable Dave Halliday, based at Morwell, said that there were a number of precautions that members of the public should take when leaving vehicles unattended for any length of time.

"The steps to take are simple enough. Never leave the car doors unlocked, no matter where you are parked or how short a time you may be gone. It’s just not worth the risk. Thieves are opportunistic and move fast, so don’t give them the chance. Check that your windows and boot are closed too.

"Never leave valuables and personal belongings in the car. This includes wallets, purses, handbags, phones or cameras. Do not leave them even in the boot of the car," Sen Con Halliday said.

"If you can, fit a steering lock, an alarm, or immobiliser. They are good deterrents. Try to avoid leaving cars in isolated areas, such as nature strips or outside premises for long periods. If you have a garage, use it," Sen Con Halliday continued.

"One of the biggest services you can do for the community is to report any suspicious activity immediately to police on the emergency number,"000". Report any thefts of or from your car to police promptly. If we know about it, we can check out other reports and see if there is a trend being established," Sen Con Halliday explained.

Cr Middlemiss said that Neighbourhood Watch schemes have ensured that there is a greater community awareness which is a useful deterrent to this sort of crime.

"Individuals and community groups can make a difference. For instance, the management of the MidValley shopping centre have been involved in deterring this sort of crime. Several years ago "Look, Lock, Leave" signs were erected in the carpark at MidValley to remind patrons to lock their vehicles before entering the shops or the cinema, and to check the surrounds for suspicious activity," Cr Middlemiss said.

"We should congratulate ourselves on the crime statistics but not become complacent," Cr Middlemiss said. "We need to be vigilant and careful and then we should see the incidence of theft of or from cars fall even lower," Cr Middlemiss.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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