7th Police District Advisory Council

The 7th Police District is one of the safest police districts in the city, but crime can happen anywhere. The most persistent problems in the 7th District are Auto Thefts, Theft from Autos and a variety of quality of life issues (graffiti, unkempt properties, abandoned autos).

Implementing some common sense tips are the best way to prevent yourself from becoming a crime victim.

Auto Theft:

Never leave your vehicle running unattended. It only takes a thief a few seconds to steal your car while you run up to an ATM machine or into a convenience store.

Always lock your car doors.  Approximately 50% of stolen vehicles were unlocked and about 13% had the keys left in them!

The use of steering wheel locks, alarm systems and similar devices can help prevent your car from being stolen. Thieves work very quickly and, generally speaking will not take the time to work around these devices when they can easily steal another vehicle. While nothing will prevent a professional thief who truly wants a specific vehicle, the thief can usually find an alternate vehicle with minimal effort.

Theft from Auto:

Always lock your vehicle. Never leave valuables or money visible. Thieves have been known to break into vehicles for loose change. A major problem at this time is the theft of portable GPS units. These portable units leave circular marks on a vehicle's windshield when the unit is removed. These marks are a tell tale sign to a criminal that a GPS unit may be in the vehicle. When removing your GPS unit, always wipe the windshield and either hide the unit or take it with you.

GPS unit manufacturers are currently looking for ways to reduce the risk of theft. Some units now require the owner to enter a pin number to activate the unit. Without the pin number, the unit is rendered useless.

WARNING

IF YOU LEAVE IT ATTACHED

IT MIGHT GET SNATCHED

2. Be aware of your surroundings; a thief may be watching and waiting for an opportunity to strike.

3. When exiting your parked vehicle make sure all windows are closed, doors are locked, and keys are removed.

4. Take out removable radios, faceplates, and accessories. Also, engrave expensive accessories.

5. Try to park in well-lit high traffic areas close to your destination.

6. Use anti-theft devices and activate vehicle alarm systems.

7. Report any suspicious activity that you see in parking lots or your neighborhood.