Edition:
July 3, 2009
Public Notices - DBA Info • CONTACT
US: News Department • Display
Advertising • Classified
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Canyon Lake Police Department
During the summer, most of us will enjoy the outdoors or take vacations away from home. Even as we relax, it’s important not to let our guard down and become victims of what is called a crime of opportunity.
Simply put, crimes of opportunity include auto thefts and burglaries in which property is made easily available to the criminal. Walk through any parking lot, glance into a car and chances are you’ll notice something valuable or attractive to a criminal. Whether it’s a purse, knapsack, cash or electronics such as such as MP3 or CD players, all are fair game for an opportunistic criminal, especially in a tough economy when folks are finding it harder to make ends meet. Thieves often look for items that can be sold on the Internet or pawned for fast cash.
The bottom line: a criminal can be in and out of your car with your belongings in just a few seconds. The same is true if you leave your house or garage door open for just a minute or two. Open garages, open doors and open windows can be invitations for criminals. Give your home a fighting chance against crime by locking doors and windows. More than half of all residential burglaries occur because of unlocked doors and windows. Delaying a burglar for four minutes is usually enough to prevent entry into a house or apartment.
If property is stolen, contact the police department. Some theft reports can be handled over the telephone, but if there is evidence (fingerprints/photographs/video surveillance), an officer will respond. A copy of the crime report may be needed for insurance purposes. If credit cards or bank checks are taken, they need to be cancelled immediately.
No amount of prevention can guarantee that your property will not be stolen, but by taking a few simple precautions you can greatly reduce your chances of becoming crime victim. If you have any concerns or would like to talk to me about this issue, I encourage you to contact me.
Corporal Ole Williams can be reached at owilliam@riversidesheriff.org or at his desk at the Canyon Lake Police Department (951) 244-2955, ext. 16.
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