Bayonne Police are investigating a recent rash of car break-ins that they say can mostly be prevented by just locking your car.
“Failing to lock parked vehicles properly, and leaving items of value visible, has led to an increase in the amount of vehicle entries throughout the city,” says Police Chief Drew Niekrasz.
“Although arrests have been made in multiple instances, the potential for quick profit exists whenever a car is left unsecured,” the Chief says.
These are crimes of opportunity that require no skill and can be accomplished within seconds. An unlocked car door typically results in minor losses (loose change, sunglasses, paperwork), but these losses can result in further victimization, including vehicle and identity thefts.
Niekrasz says the department has seen numerous incidents where wallets, purses, GPS devices, laptop computers, vehicles and residence keys have been taken from vehicles left unlocked on city streets.
“We have taken action to respond to these crimes. Additional plainclothes personnel have been assigned but the Police Department can be even more effective in combating this issue with the public’s assistance,” Mayor Jimmy Davis says.
Davis recommends securing your vehicles properly when parked, and removing items of value whenever possible.
“In addition, report suspicious solicitors and other individuals you believe may be committing criminal acts,” Davis says.
Contact the Bayonne Police at 201-858-6900 or their Tip Line at 1-877-900-8477.
