RASH OF VEHICLE THEFTS, VEHICLE BURGLARIES

Marina Police Department

*MEDIA RELEASE*
Date of Release May 13, 2009
RASH OF VEHICLE THEFTS,
VEHICLE BURGLARIES
AND THEFTS FROM UNLOCKED VEHICLES


DEPARTMENT CONTACT: RICK JANICKI, LIEUTENANT/PIO

The Marina Police Department in an effort to educate and keep the public informed is advising residents and visitors of the City of Marina that there has been a rash of vehicle thefts, vehicle burglaries and thefts from unlocked vehicles in the City.

Since January 1, 2009 there have been fifteen vehicles stolen, twelve vehicle burglaries, three attempted vehicle burglaries and eighteen thefts from vehicles. This is a total of forty-eight vehicle related crimes.

Analysis of stolen vehicles revealed that nine of the vehicles stolen were late 1980 to mid 1990 vintage Hondas. Further analysis showed that a majority of the stolen vehicles and burglarized vehicles showed no signs of forced entry.

Eight stolen vehicles have been recovered at this time. Six of the stolen vehicles were recovered in the City of Salinas and two in Marina. In two instances suspects fled police resulting in vehicle pursuits. One pursuit led to one arrest the other resulted in five arrests. The two pursuits occurred in the City of Salinas.

Investigation has revealed that a majority of the stolen and burglarized vehicles showed no signs of forced entry. The method the suspects are using to enter the vehicles has been identified. Howver, to avoid copycat crimes the method isn’t being released.

The Marina Police Department urges Marina residents and visitors to ensure they do the following:

1. Park your vehicle(s) in the garage and lock the garage door.
2. If you do not have a garage park your vehicle in a well lit, well populated area.
3. If you do not drive frequently, periodically check on your vehicle and move it so it looks like it is used frequently.
4. Set your car alarm and ensure it works.
5. Consider purchasing a steering wheel locking device.
6. ALWAYS lock your vehicle and roll up the windows.