Over the past several months, there has been an increase in the number of auto burglaries throughout the City, with the East Division being targeted the heaviest.  Although many of the incidents have occurred in the area bordered by Cherry Avenue on the west, Bellflower Boulevard on the east, Pacific Coast Highway on the north, and the shoreline on the south, all residents are encouraged to use precautions.  

In most of these cases, the vehicle's window was either pried open or smashed.  Some of the loss includes purses, wallets, small electronics, GPS devices, cell phones, laptop computers, and MP3 players.  It is believed that the increase in this type of crime has occurred due to the increased prevalence of these items, the ease in which they are concealed after the crime, and the increased demand for these items on electronic goods auction Internet sites.  Additionally, the Long Beach Police Department has had recent success in reducing the rate of auto thefts.  It is believed that the criminals who had previously targeted vehicles for the purpose of vehicle theft, are now targeting vehicles for items left behind.

The Long Beach Police Department strongly recommends that all citizens consider the following preventative steps in order to lessen the chances of becoming a victim.  Your actions constitute the first line of defense on preventing crime.

• Keep your vehicle locked at all times and never leave valuables in plain sight.
• Keep all packages and valuables locked in the trunk, or take them with you.
• If you must leave valuables in the trunk, place them there before you arrive at your destination.
• If your trunk can be opened from inside of your car without a key, lock this feature or have it disabled.
• Do not leave any connector cables (GPS, phone, MP3) or docking stations in plain sight; this may give the impression you have electronics somewhere inside.
• Never leave loose change in plain sight; in some cases, that is enough to prompt a break-in.
• Park in well-lighted areas when able.
• Be sure to activate your alarm system or consider installing one.
• Once home, unload your valuables immediately and do not store them in your car.

Always report suspicious individuals or activity right away by calling 9-1-1, or the Long Beach Police Communications Center at (562) 435-6711.