A large percentage of the burglaries have occurred between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM. There are no specific days of the week that are more active than the others. In most of our cases, a window is smashed on the car in order to gain access to the interior. The items stolen include purses, backpacks, electronics, books, tools, cell phones, laptops, and cash.

Most burglaries are occurring north of Interstate 8. Targeted streets have included Center Drive, Milden Street, Buckland Drive, Murray Drive, Campina Drive, Kimi Lane, Briercrest Drive, and Fletcher Parkway. Shopping centers, medical facilities and gyms are also targets for car burglars due to the high volume of cars in one area.

Make it a habit to:

• Remove all valuables from your car or secure them in the trunk or cargo area.
• Set the alarm if you have one installed.
• Park in a well-lit area.
• If you park in your garage, close and lock the garage door.
• Watch out for your neighbors’ vehicles.
• If you see someone loitering in a parking lot or near a vehicle, call the police.

For more information on vehicle security or to start a Neighborhood Watch Group, please call the La Mesa Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit at 619.667.7545.