Police: Thefts from Vehicles Spike During Weekend Events

With so many things happening around town this weekend, the Minneapolis Police Department wants citizens to be wise about leaving valuable items and locking their vehicles.

"It’s common to see a spike in thefts from motor vehicles during events when people are more likely to leave valuables in their vehicles so as to not be burdened while at events," the department said in a press release. "The Fifth Precinct wants everyone to enjoy their outings and keep themselves and their valuables safe."

The following tips were sent out by police Thursday:

• Lock your vehicle to reduce opportunity of theft. Lock doors while driving and upon exiting the vehicle.
• Do not leave keys in your vehicle.
• Do not leave valuables in vehicles. This includes items such as purses, laptops, iPods, sunglasses, and loose change. Remove face plates of after-market stereos.
• If you must bring valuables, place them in the trunk prior to reaching your destination.
• Do not leave garage door opener in plain view; treat it as a key to your property.
• Bring GPS units inside with you; they could be stolen from the car or glove compartment. Remove the mounting device or wipe off the dashboard to take away evidence that a GPS unit is usually there. Record the make, model and serial number and keep in a safe place.
• Pay attention to unusual behavior in your neighborhood. Call 911 to report suspicious persons or activity. These crimes can occur any time; be especially alert to noises such as breaking glass or suspicious people loitering near parked vehicles.
• Close windows when vehicle is parked and avoid having windows wide open when driving.
• Always park in well-lit areas.
• Utilize secure parking. A majority of vehicle-related thefts occur to vehicles parked on the street.
• Use visible deterrents such as the steering wheel bar, also called the "Club," to make a vehicle difficult to steal. If you have an alarm system in your vehicle, use it.
• Do not leave vehicles running unattended. Minneapolis police may issue citations to unattended parked vehicles left running on the street or in the alley.