SPD fights breakins

Published 12:00 am Sunday, January 16, 2005

One of the most committed crimes in Selma is breaking into vehicles, according to police reports. This week alone, there were five reported incidents of breaking and entering into vehicles across the city.

Reports also indicate that the most common items taken from vehicles are CDs, purses and cash.

Interim Selma Police Chief Bobby Jacobs said now that the holiday rush is over and citizens are settling back into their normal routines, it does not mean it’s safe to let their guards down.

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Criminals, Jacobs said, are in the business of looking for any opportunity.

“Always think pro-active when it comes to your property and personal safety, and always keep a look out for your neighbors,” Jacobs said.

The interim chief recommends people evaluate their home and property for things that would give criminals the advantage, including unsecured windows and doors, poor locks and inadequate lighting around a home.

Jacobs said valuables should not be left in plain sight inside a vehicle. This not only includes things like wallets, purses and CD players, but also bags or backpacks that might hold them.

“Don’t leave the keys in the ignition, in the car, under the car, around the car or lying in plain sight,” Jacobs said. “Any place you can think of, thieves can think of too.”

Finally, Jacobs said, homeowners should install motion detector lights around their homes and garage.

“When away from home, park in well-traveled, well-lit areas,” Jacobs said. “When you return to your vehicle, check in, under and around your car before entering the vehicle.”

Following these simple guidelines, Jacobs said, can greatly reduce the number of break-ins that occur within the city.