HOLLISTER
The frequency of burglary and theft from automobiles in Hollister has taken a dramatic spike in recent months, the police department announced this week.
From Sept. 1 to Dec. 3, the Hollister Police Department received 33 reports of property being stolen from vehicles. During the same period last year, there were just five similar reports.
“This time of year, we always see a sharp increase in this type of crime,” Police Chief Miller said. “It’s easy to smash a window and run, so citizens need to make sure they don’t leave items like purses, presents and packages in their vehicles while in Hollister or anywhere else.”
The Hollister Police Department issued the following recommendations in a press release Thursday:
– Always lock your car and take your keys with you – no matter how quickly you’ll return.
– Close the windows completely, including the sunroof.
– Park in well-lit areas where vehicle and foot traffic will deter theft.
– Place any valuables, packages, cell phones, radios, purses, briefcases or laptop computers out of sight.
Anyone with information about criminal activity is encouraged to call WeTiP if they wish to remain anonymous. People can contact WeTiP with information on criminal activity by calling 1-800-782-7463 or on the Internet at www.wetip.com.