Full Notification

The Kern County Sheriff’s Office has recently noticed a significant increase in the number of reported crimes involving vehicles in Kern County. Based on information developed through the Data Driven Policing Program, an upward trend in license plate thefts, vehicle vandalism, and tool thefts was identified.

In calendar year to date 2016, as compared to calendar year to date 2015, there has been a 71.9% increase in license plate thefts, a 19% increase in vehicle vandalisms, and an 11.1% increase in the theft of tools from vehicles.

In light of this information, the Sheriff’s Office would like to provide the following safety tips to the citizens of Kern County;

Work Vehicles

Make sure your vehicle is locked every time you park it.

If you have a tool utility box in the bed of your work truck, make sure it is always secured.

Park work vehicles in a garage or secured area when possible. If possible, do not leave work trucks or trailers parked overnight on public streets or roads.

Do not leave valuables inside work vehicles or trailers. Items such as tools, generators, and air compressors should be removed and secured at the end of each day.

Add additional security to a trailer regardless of where it is parked. Use heavy duty wheel locks or trailer hitch locks. Even the visual aspect of the locking devices will deter most criminals.

Install a GPS unit in your work truck or vehicle.

Maintain an up to date inventory of work related tools and items. Keep information on brands, color, make, model, serial numbers and receipts of expensive equipment.

When possible, use an etching device to mark your equipment with your name and California Driver’s License number, so if law enforcement comes into contact with the equipment it will be easy to contact you. DO NOT use your social security number.

If you learn of individuals selling expensive equipment at cut rate prices, it is probably stolen equipment. Report that information to law enforcement as soon as possible.

License Plates

Check your license plates occasionally to ensure your license plate tab is attached.

Remove old license plate tabs before applying a new one, it makes it harder to remove.

Use a sturdy, metal license plate frame to secure your license plate.

Use security screws when securing your license plate.

Immediately report the theft of a license plate to law enforcement.

Vehicle Vandalism

Park in open, well lit, populated areas. Avoid parking in areas that obstruct visibility.

If you park in your driveway, install good lighting. Back your vehicle into your driveway.

Park in your garage when possible, and make sure your garage is locked. If you have a detached garage, make sure there is good lighting between the house and garage.

Don’t leave your vehicle parked unattended for an extended period of time.

Invest in a car cover, this will deter some vandals.

Install a vehicle security system.

If your car is vandalized at your home, make sure to tell neighbors so they can keep an eye out for suspicious activity.

Report any acts of vandalism to your vehicle as soon as possible.

For further information on vehicle security, or for information on additional crime prevention programs, please call the Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Unit at 661-392-6914.