Newmarket
October 07, 2008 10:00 AM
Joe Fantauzzi, Staff Writer
If you live in Aurora or Newmarket, York Regional Police are urging you to keep expensive electronics out of sight and always lock your doors when you park your vehicle.
The advice follows a number of thefts from vehicles have occurred in the two communities this year.
Thieves have targeted expensive Global Positioning Systems, attached to dashboards or windshields by a suction cup and iPods, Const. Erin Tester said.
Thieves do not appear to be targeting specific areas in Newmarket or Aurora, she said, adding that when thefts do occur, sometimes they will take place in spurts, with numerous vehicles targeted in a short period.
Arrests were made in connection with thefts from vehicles a couple of weeks ago, Const.Tester said.
Police are also reminding drivers to ensure other electronics and valuables, such as portable DVD players and laptop computers are removed from vehicles or secured.
If you are the victim of a theft, no matter how small, report it. The information you provide may help identify trends, suspects and possibly result in your property being returned, police said.
If you have any information about thefts from vehicles in Aurora or Newmarket, call police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7142, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or leave a tip at www.1800222tips.com
How you can avoid becoming a victim of crime:
• Always be aware of your surroundings. Be mindful of people loitering in your neighbourhood or acting suspiciously. Report suspicious activity to the police;
• Criminals are opportunists — don’t make it easy for them;
• Always leave valuables in the vehicle’s trunk, out of sight or don’t leave them in the vehicle at all;
• Don’t leave your wallet or purse in your vehicle.