The UC Irvine Police Department is distributing this information about SUV 3rd Row Seat Thefts due to several occurrences being reported to local law enforcement agencies.
Over the past month, neighboring agencies have reported an increase in SUV 3rd row seat thefts. These crimes have occurred within residential neighborhoods and in public parking lots and in most cases, the vehicles have been locked. In a recent case, the suspects removed the stereo, but were unable to take the 3rd row seat, because it had been secured with a cable bike lock.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO PREVENT 3rd ROW SEAT THEFT
• At night, park in a well-lighted location.
• When possible, back your vehicle in against a solid object to prevent access to the rear of your vehicle.
• Use a bicycle-style cable lock to secure the 3rd row seat to the body of your vehicle.
• Engrave your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the frame of the seat.
• When not in use, remove your third row seat and store it in your locked garage.
• Most 3rd row seat thefts have occurred in parking structures; consider parking in an open lot when possible.
These tips may not prevent a burglar from breaking into your vehicle, but should prevent them from taking your seats. Also, remember to never leave valuables in your vehicle and to always close all windows and lock all doors.
We encourage the community to partner with law enforcement to prevent or report crime by contacting the police department at (949) 824-5223 or if you wish to remain Anonymous, call “OC Crime Stoppers” by dialing 855-TIP-OCCS (855-847-6227), text the letters OCCS plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or use the website http://occrimestoppers.org
"If You See Something, Say Something" campaign and U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Public Service Announcements (PSA's):
http://www.dhs.gov/files/reportincidents/see-something-say-something.shtm
Let’s work together to prevent crime!
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