
Don't be a target, lock your car
Geoge Stagmeier chief HPD
George Stagmeier is chief of the Hinesville Police Department. He came to the HPD in 1984 and became chief in 1999. - photo by File photo

Entering autos have become more prevalent and the Hinesville Police Department has handled a number of cases that could have possibly been avoided if certain precautions had been taken.

Most entering auto thefts are crimes of opportunity through things like unlocked doors and open windows.

With that in mind, here are some tips to help prevent you from becoming a victim of entering auto theft.

1. Lock your car doors and close your windows, even when your car is parked at home.

2. Make sure vehicle alarms are activated.

3. Park in well-lit areas that are frequented by pedestrians and avoid parking in isolated areas.

4. Do not leave any items visible in your car, especially items of value such as cell phones, purses and laptops.

5. Do not leave money visible. Even loose coins in a cup holder are enough to cause someone to enter your vehicle.

6. Store property in the car’s trunk or in areas not visible from the outside. Things such as luggage, shopping bags and clothing containers should be safely out of site.

7. Secure the trunk, hatches and bedmounted toolboxes.

The most important thing you can do is to call 911 to report crime or any suspicious activity. You have to be the eyes and ears of your neighborhood, so it is also beneficial to communicate with your neighbors to develop a partnership in monitoring suspicious people.

While security guards such as locks and alarms can only provide a degree of protection and deterrence, following these tips and being an alert, proactive citizen can aid in reducing these thefts.

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