Eureka Police Department release: 

 

The Eureka Police Department has seen an increase in the number of thefts from vehicles during November.

Since November 1st, there have been 66 reported incidents of items being taken from vehicles, both locked and unlocked. A large number of these thefts have occurred near Henderson Center and in the area of the Eureka Mall including areas south to Highland Avenue. The majority of the thefts are occurring during hours of darkness. Items that are being taken range from purses and wallets to backpacks and miscellaneous clothing, cash, coins from the cup holders and even two firearms and a taser.

We would like to remind people not to leave items in plain sight inside their vehicles. Even if the item has no value to you it has value to a thief and it could cost you the price to replace your windows. Even placing items in the trunk is not a guarantee to prevent a theft. It is never a good idea to leave a firearm in a vehicle, but if you do the regulations governing the security of the firearm can be found in California Penal Code section 25140.

Remember a theft from a vehicle can take only seconds to accomplish, so here are a few additional tips to think about when it comes to the security of your vehicle and belongings:

  • Do not leave recent purchases with receipts in the car. Burglars have been known to steal gifts and attempt to return them to the store for a cash refund.
  • Do not leave items, valuable or not, visible in your car. Even a gym bag left in the car can look inviting. Take out all diaper bags, gym bags, shopping bags, backpacks or anything else that looks like it could be of value.
  • Close all windows and lock all doors before leaving your vehicle.
  • Park in well-lit, heavily populated areas.
  • Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, find another place to park.
  • Avoid parking next to occupied vehicles.
  • Do not leave garage door openers in parked vehicles. Burglars have been known to steal garage door openers and use them to make entry inside garages and houses.
  • Don’t think your dark tinted windows will hide your valuables. Thieves often use flashlights to see through tint.
  • The best security against vehicle burglary at your residence is to lock your car in the garage.