This newsroom talked to police on Sunday about the series of car break-ins that happened overnight. Unlocked vehicles on several residential roads were targeted by thieves looking for loose change or anything else they could get their hands on.
Tips to avoid becoming a victim (Courtesy of Vandalia police)
- Lock your vehicle. Most thieves will only enter an unlocked vehicle
- Make sure all the windows are rolled-up and secured
- Do not leave your keys in the vehicle
- If you must leave valuables or gifts in the vehicle, hide them in the trunk.
- Do not leave your wallet or purse in an unattended vehicle.
- Keep the front porch light on if your car is parked in front of your house. When at a store or shopping mall parking lot, park near a lighted area.
- Report any suspicious persons or vehicles to the police immediately.
EARLIER (Feb. 19)
Nearly a dozen Vandalia residents woke up this morning to find their cars had been broken into overnight, in neighborhoods that Vandalia police describe as a “typical” area of the city.
“People are coming out, finding their cars have been gone through, mostly glove boxes open and center consoles gone through,” said Sgt. Ben Walker of the Vandalia police department.
Sgt. Walker said around 10 vehicles had been broken into, with that number possibly climbing as more people go outside to check their cars.
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So far, none of the vehicles have been damaged, as the cars targeted appear to have all been unlocked.
Streets where the thefts were reported include Bailey Avenue, Estelle Drive and Ronald Street — all west of Helke Road.
Walker said the area isn’t known for having problems with thefts. The thefts appear to be contained to just those areas west of Helke Road.
Vandalia police have searched adjacent areas, looking for more cars that may have been broken into and alerting potential victims.
So far, there hasn’t been a great deal of monetary loss. Walker said most of what’s been taken has been loose change.
“We had one bag that had a laptop in it. That’s the most expensive item taken so far,” said Walker.
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