ORPD investigating auto burglaries, offers prevention tips

The Oak Ridge Police Department is investigating a series of motor vehicle burglaries that have occurred throughout the city since August, and authorities are warning residents that vehicle break-ins increase during the holiday season, from late October to the new year.

The ORPD said there have been more than 25 reported auto burglaries from August through last week.

“The common thread is unattended vehicles left in fairly secluded parking lots, (with the) majority occurring around parks along Melton Lake Drive (and) Edgemoor Road,” the ORPD said last week. “The most current location is along Outer Drive. Time of day for each of the burglaries has varied, ranging from broad daylight, dusk, and dark. Items stolen from vehicles appear to have been in plain view.”

The most-stolen items include purses, cell phones, iPads and tablets, laptop computers, GPS units, other electronic items, and cash.

To help prevent the break-ins, the ORPD advises residents to lock their vehicle doors, hide valuables out of sight (such as in the trunk), and take your purse, phone, and electronics with you out of your vehicle.

If you or anyone you know has seen anything suspicious related to these burglaries, the Police Department asks you to report it by calling (865) 425-4399.

Authorities said they have stepped up patrols in response to the burglaries.

Here are more ORPD tips to prevent auto burglaries:

1. Remove visible items—If you leave items visible in your car, you are a target. Be aware that someone may be watching as you put a wallet, purse, or cell phone under your seat, especially at a gym. Take these with you or secure them in your trunk.
2. Lock the doors—Lock your vehicle and take your keys, even for quick errands. Lock the trunk, hatchback, or tailgate to block access into the vehicle. Close all windows, including vent or wing windows and sunroofs.
3. Vehicle alarms—Buy an alarm and use it. Many people believe that alarms no longer make a difference; however, they do remain an effective deterrent to a burglar. Remember, criminals are looking for the easy target.
4. Vehicle registration—Black out the address on your registration and photocopy it. Keep the copy, not the original, in your car. You must have the registration available to present to a police officer upon request.
5. Do not attach personal information to your keys—If your keys are stolen, having your personal information or vehicle license number attached only compounds the problem. A criminal now may have access to your home, automobile, or office.
6. Personal mail—Do not leave outgoing or incoming mail in your car, especially where visible. This has your name and address on it.
7. Garage door opener—Avoid leaving this in your car if possible.
8. Parking at home—At home, park in your garage if you have one. Lock your car and all garage doors. Park in a well-lit area. Check to see that your vehicle is visible from pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

The Oak Ridge Police Department said it would like to remind all citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. For more information, visit the ORPD page on Facebook.

Here’s an ORPD auto burglary prevention flyer: