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Crime & Safety

Southland Police: Don't Invite Criminals to Steal, Burglarize Your Car

Southland law enforcement officials offer tips to combat car thieves and burglars.

Southland law enforcement officials say many residents are unknowingly leaving themselves open to auto theft and burglary, even home invasion and identity theft.

Whether you're a fatigued Homewood commuter, a busy stay-at-home-mom in Tinley Park or an elderly Olympia Fields resident, you could fall into the trap of compromising your car and its contents, police say. However, a few changes in your routine could protect your auto, your valuables and your peace of mind.

Safety Not Just For the "Big City"

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First, don't assume that it's unnecessary to lock your doors in the Southland.

Some residents have developed a mental block and believe that locked doors and other crime-prevention measures are only for folks in the big city, police say. 

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"People sometimes get a false sense of security because they live in the area and they feel that it's well protected," commented Olympia Fields Det. Mark Akiyama.

Even though the area is safe, there is still crime, Akiyama said.

"You'll hear people say, 'but I live in Tinley Park,'" Tinley Park Crime Prevention Officer Dina Navas said. "Some people get mad when you tell them ... (but) we have locks on doors of cars and houses for a reason."

The next step is to keep your car empty of valuable items, Flossmoor Deputy Chief Mike Pulec said.  

In many recent auto burglary cases in Flossmoor, vehicles were left unlocked.

If you do have something valuable in your vehicle, such as a GPS device, never leave it in plain sight, police said.

"That's a big no no. Never leave things out to invite a criminal to take it," Akiyama said. 

Don't Let Your Guard Down in Driveway

Residents often let their guard down when their vehicle is parked in the driveway, said Homewood Det. Sgt. Denise McGrath.

"They feel a sense of security and don’t lock their vehicle," McGrath said. "It's a crime of opportunity."

McGrath recommends concealing all personal items that need to remain in the car, "just so they're not a red flag."

That's easier said than done for some residents, Navas said. 

"Moms will leave their purses in the garage, with the garage door up," Navas said. "If you have a Jones & Sons (jewelers) shopping bag, then you definitely have to put it in the vehicle and cover it up."

Don't Treat Car Like Your Closet or Office

Keeping your purse, checkbook and wallet in your vehicle will leave you open to identity theft, the law enforcement officials pointed out.

"You shouldn't be carrying a checkbook," said Navas. "If you're still writing checks at the grocery store, take one check with you."

Here's a checklist to prevent auto theft and burglary:

  • Never leave any keys in the car or ignition. Not even inside a locked garage.
  • Always roll up your windows and lock your car, even if you're only parking for five minutes in your own driveway or garage.
  • Never leave valuable property, such as a GPS, in plain view, even if your vehicle is locked. At the very least, stow your valuables in the trunk and out of sight.
  • Always park in high-traffic, well-lit areas when possible.
  • Don't leave your checkbook, wallet, purse or credit cards in your car. Thieves can steal your identity and severely complicate your life.
  • Don't leave your garage door opener in plain sight. In some recent Southland crimes, thieves gained access to a vehicle parked inside a garage by accessing the garage door opener from a car parked outside.
  • Consider installing a motion-detector light by your garage and home.

Should your car or SUV be stolen or burglarized, contact your local police department immediately.

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