On Wednesday, May 23, 2012, between 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., 8 auto burglaries via window smash were reported to UCPD along Centennial Way.  The burglaries occurred at both the Strawberry Rec-Center and Coffer Dam parking lots.  In recent months the Lawrence Hall of Science parking lot has also experienced a series of auto burglaries.

UCPD recommends taking the following steps in protecting your property and to discourage would-be criminals from committing auto burglaries:

• Do not leave valuables in your card.  If you leave items of value in plain view your car is automatically a target.
• Do not leave any sign that there might be valuables “out of sight” in your vehicle such as docking stations and phone chargers.
• Items most commonly stolen from vehicles

• Backpacks, gym bags, briefcases, day-planners
• Cash/coins, checkbooks and credit/debit cards
• Wallets and purses (even when hidden under a seat or in an unlocked glove compartment)
• Laptop computers, cell phones, portable GPS navigation systems, iPods and MP3 players
• Stereo/CD players
• Jewelry, keys, mail (identity theft) and tools

• Park in busy, well-lighted areas.
• Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, find another place to park.
• Avoid parking next to occupied vehicles.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Close all windows and lock all doors before leaving your vehicle.
• Make a copy of your registration and insurance, and keep them in your wallet or purse.
• Take note of emergency/pay phones near where you have parked, in case you need to use them.
• If you see any suspicious activity or individuals, please contact UCPD immediately when you feel safe to do so by dialing 9-1-1 or 642-3333 (from cell phones).