Prowlers steal from four unlocked vehicles
Four victims had belongings stolen from from unlocked vehicles on Sunday and Monday, Nov. 10-11, The Paso Robles Police Department reported.
All of these thefts took place in residential neighborhoods, Cheyenne Drive and Red River Drive, on the east side of the city during the overnight hours. Officers collected evidence and the investigation is ongoing.
Suspected thief caught on camera.
It appears that two suspects acted in concert to commit these crimes, police say. One of the suspects acted as a look out while the other entered the unlocked vehicles and removed property. The suspects were concealing their identities by wearing dark colored clothing, hooded sweatshirts, gloves and masks.
It appears that one of these suspect’s images was captured on a private security surveillance video system on a prior date prowling in the same neighborhood. This suspect is described as a White male adult in his early 20’s with no facial hair. Anyone who can identify this suspect is asked to call the police department.
These types of cases are difficult to solve, as there is usually very little physical evidence left behind, police say. In addition to the loss of personal property, victims also endure a loss of their personal time contacting banks, canceling credit cards, and sometimes obtaining a new driver’s license.
The police department is requesting help from the public in reducing these types of crimes. The areas where the public can help reduce their chances of being a victim are: ensuring they lock their vehicle and set the alarm when leaving it unattended, taking their valuables out of their vehicles or hiding them from plain view, and remembering to close the garage door upon leaving or returning home. By taking precautions police say instances of “crimes of opportunity” can be significantly reduced. Police also encourages the public to call and report suspicious activity.
Watch for suspicious activity and report it
- Persons walking up and down streets or parking lots looking into cars and/or trying vehicle door handles.
- Vehicles cruising streets or parking lots at very slow speeds for extended periods while observing parked cars.
- Persons sitting in parked vehicles for prolonged periods, or vehicles dropping one person off while continuing to cruise the same area.
Police say they would rather investigate this kind of activity, even if it turns out to be an innocent person going about their business, than to miss criminal conduct that went unreported.
The Paso Robles Police Department is seeking assistance from the public to help solve these crimes. If you have any information about these crimes or any person involved, you are urged to call Crime Stoppers at (805) 549-STOP (549-7867) or submit a Web Tip from the Crime Stoppers website at http://www.slotips.org. You can also submit a “TEXT TIP” by texting “slotips” and your message to CRIMES (or 274637). You do not have to give your name. Crime Stoppers will pay a cash reward of up to $1000 for information leading to arrest and conviction, and you can remain anonymous.
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