The Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station has released its crime information and public safety report for Stevenson Ranch (Zone 3) for the week of Sept. 3-9, 2018.

09/03/18
Burglary (Vehicle): 25900 The Old Road
Person(s) unknown smashed the rear passenger window of the victim’s vehicle and stole his laptop computer and Nikon camera. Total loss was $3,000.

09/05/18
Burglary (Vehicle): 25400 Fitzgerald Avenue
A female adult and male adult entered the victim’s vehicle and stole two boxes of rubber flooring. The victim stated his vehicle was locked. There were no signs of forced entry. Total loss was $400.

09/01/18
Petty Theft (Vehicle): 28600 Castaic Canyon Road
A white male adult entered the victim’s unlocked vehicle and stole a backpack containing the victim’s passports, debit/credit cards, checkbook, and Social Security card. The suspect left the location in a silver Toyota Rave. Total loss was $375.

Tip of the week: Avoiding Vehicle Burglaries
Most criminals who are looking to steal items from a vehicle are looking for the easy targets. Most commonly known as a smash-and-grab, the burglars are looking for high-value items that are in plain sight which can be easily and quickly taken after finding an unlocked door or smashing a window.

Imagine the costs and inconvenience of not only having to replace a smashed window but also having to replace your driver’s license, credit/debit cards, laptop, cell phone, etc.

Here are some great tips to help prevent being a victim of a vehicle burglary.

* ALWAYS lock your vehicle when left unattended.

* Never leave your wallet or purse in your vehicle and in plain view when leaving your vehicle unattended.

* If you use a portable GPS, remove it from the dash or windshield and place it in your glovebox or trunk when leaving your vehicle unattended.

* Never leave any high-value items (laptops, cell phones, jewelry, tools) inside your vehicle in plain view while unattended. If you cannot carry those items with you, secure them in the trunk.

* Use a sunscreen in your windshield, even at night or when parked in a parking structure. This makes it much harder for a burglar to look into your vehicle.

Remember: Vehicle burglars usually will not break into a vehicle with the intention of searching it in hopes of finding something of value. This takes too long and the burglar risks being seen. If there is no easy opportunity that is readily available for a smash-and-grab thief, they will more than likely pass your vehicle and look for a better target.

Take care, and be safe.

Dep. Kevin Duxbury
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department
Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station
661-799-5158
KBDuxbur@lasd.org