Beckley Police: Car Break-Ins on the Rise - Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, Sports

Beckley Police: Car Break-Ins on the Rise

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BECKELY -

A good option to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of crime is to put your valuables inside of the glove compartment before exiting the car.

Police said the best way to protect yourself is to eliminate opportunity.

"One of the most common things is that people feel like they can leave their vehicle unlocked because they haven't been a victim in the past. And a lot of times that leads to them having items stolen from the vehicle," Capt. Jeff Shumate, Beckley Chief of Detective said.

Captain Jeff Shumate said folks should make sure all car doors are locked and windows are rolled up before exiting the car. Be aware of your surroundings....and don't keep valuables in plain sight

"We've become complacent it takes a little more time to secure our vehicle and things in our vehicle so that often leads us to exposing ourselves to be victims of crimes," Captain Shumate continued.

And with peak travel season upon us....folks also need to focus on securing their homes when they are on vacation.

"Make it appear to someone walking by that you haven't left your home. have someone pick up your papers and your mail, Captain Shumate advised.

Police said breaking and entering in both the home or a vehicle are crimes of opportunities. Shumate said the more difficult you make it for a criminal... the less likely they to target your belongings. He especially encourages folks to take extra precautions when making expensive purchases at the store.

If you have bigger items or just went shopping the best place to secure them is in your truck.