In Kent PD’s crime stats for the week of 11/16 – 11/22/10, vehicle prowls and thefts are increasing. Along with the list of incidents, they also issue this warning to car owners:

“Vehicle Prowl Prevention – There is a recent trend of vehicle prowls of cars that are parked in driveways. The suspects then use the garage door openers that are in the cars and use those to gain access to the garage and sometimes the home. Items have been stolen from the garages, as well as cars that are parked inside the garage. If you can, park in the garage. If not, EVERY TIME, remove the garage door opener and valuables from cars parked outside.”

Other safety tips:

• Do not leave a running car unattended, even if it is locked.
• Stay with your car while it is warming up.
• Do not leave any valuables of any kind in your vehicle.
• Always keep your car locked.
• Report any suspicious activity to 9-1-1.
  • Unfamiliar people wandering through neighborhoods or around schools
  • Door to door “salesmen”
  • Looking in house or car windows
  • Walking around to the back of the house
  • Peeking into vehicles
  • Parked or occupied unfamiliar vehicles.
• Report any vehicle vandalism to 9-1-1.

Protect your vehicle, valuables and home by being aware of your surroundings and reporting suspicious activity.

Thanks to Sara Wood and Kent PD for providing this information.

There has been a steady trend of vehicle prowls and thefts in Kent as of late. Many of these thefts involved vehicles used by businesses. Remember, if you operate vans, trucks, or cars as part of your business, it is just as important to secure these vehicles as it is your personal vehicle.

The City of Kent crime stats for the week of Oct. 19th through Oct. 25th had 13 vehicle prowls – 7 in the Valley, 3 in the Panther Lake area, 3 in the East Hill area. During that week there were also 25 vehicle thefts – 4 on the West Hill (park and rides especially!), 10 in the Valley, 2 in the Panther Lake area, 9 in the East Hill area.

The best advice that can be given regarding this subject is to always, always, always remove all your valuables every time you park or else you and your car may end up being another crime statistic.

From Sara Wood, public education specialist from the City of Kent Police Department:

• Last week’s crime stats
• Sex Offender Level III Notice
• Landlord/Property Management Training in Federal Way – May 12
• Hondas:  popular targets for vehicle theft - We are still seeing a steady trend of Hondas being targeted for vehicle thefts. If you haven’t already, consider purchasing The Club, an steering wheel locking device. They can be purchased through Kent PD for $15.00.

Thank you for being partners in crime prevention!