Within the past few weeks the Waterloo Police Department and other Cedar Valley area law enforcement agencies have investigated numerous car burglaries.  On Thursday, August 5, 2010, four persons were arrested who are responsible for a majority of these burglaries.  Other arrests are anticipated, as this is an ongoing investigation.  The Cedar Falls Police Department will issue a media release with additional information about the persons arrested.

Vehicle burglaries are one of the most preventable crimes.  The vehicle burglaries that are occurring in the Cedar Valley area are not necessarily happening in shopping mall parking lots or while people are parked at their place of business.  These crimes are occurring at night, in people's own driveways or on the street out front of their homes.  Following just a few steps can dramatically reduce your risk of being a victim.

• If available, always park your vehicle in a locked garage.
• Always lock the doors to your vehicle, even when you are away from the vehicle for a short time.
• Remove all valuables from your vehicle. If you can't take personal property with you, lock items in the trunk. Do not place them under the seat. This includes your purse or wallet, CDs, books, cash, keys, cell phone, iPod, laptop, garage door opener, gym bag, briefcase, jewelry, tools, packages, etc. If a thief breaks into your vehicle and steals your garage door opener and keys, they have access to your home.
• Do not leave ANY mail in your vehicle. These items have your name, address and possibly contain personal financial information.
• Remove "pull out" style stereos and/or removable faceplates of stereos.
• Park in well-lit areas. At home, park your vehicle near porch lights. If you cannot park in a garage, install motion detection lights, which will illuminate your driveway at night.
• Set any alarm or anti-theft device that is installed on your vehicle.

Through a cooperative effort between the public and law enforcement, we can reduce these and other types of crimes.

Captain John Beckman
Waterloo Police Department
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319-291-4383