Car Break-Ins Escalates in Shreveport
Shreveport, LA – Despite a reduction in crimes involving guns so far this year, Shreveport, Louisiana, has witnessed a significant increase in a different kind of crime – vehicle break-ins. Local councilwoman, Tabatha Taylor, has expressed concern over the growing incidence of this crime in her district. “We’ve seen an increase in pulling on door handles. That I know I’ve seen from MLK to right at Pines Road,” reports Taylor.
Thieves Preferring Easy Targets
Shreveport’s Chief of Police, Wayne Smith, acknowledges this troubling trend and gives insight into this issue during a recent city council meeting. According to Smith, the criminals are seeking out “easy prey.” He states, “Keep in mind that if someone has it in their mind that they want to do something, it is hard to do anything to prevent them from doing it because they are going to do it.”
The Police Chief further explained that most of these break-ins are happening late at night, primarily within poorly lit areas. Given this trend, Smith has offered some guidance to help prevent residents’ vehicles from becoming the next target.
Preventing Your Car from Being the Next Target
“But you can make it difficult, and you can make your vehicle less enticing by keeping it in a better lit area. If you park it under your carport at night, you know, leave the light on. Make sure you lock your vehicle. Don’t leave things out exposed that may entice someone to break into your vehicle,” advised Smith.
Proactive Security Measures
Smith also informed that the Shreveport Police Department is set to beef up its surveillance measures, as part of an effort to curb criminal activities. This includes the deployment of security cameras equipped with flashing lights and 360-degree viewing capabilities. This technology will not only help deter potential criminals but also provide useful evidence for crime investigations.
Residents React
The rise in vehicle break-ins has left Shreveport residents feeling uneasy. Consequently, locals are taking the police chief’s advice to heart and taking steps to safeguard their vehicles. This includes parking in well-lit areas, locking their vehicles even when parked at home, and avoiding leaving valuable items in their vehicles.
Police Urge Community’s Help
As the city grapples with this surge in car break-ins, the Police is calling for public vigilance and cooperation in their efforts to cut down on these crimes.
Community Effort Needed
Chief Smith emphasized the crucial role public cooperation plays in curbing petty crimes like vehicle break-ins. As such, he’s urged community members to be proactive and vigilant, taking precautions with their personal properties and reporting anything they deem suspicious to the authorities promptly.