Prospector

Media Credit: David DuPlantier

Within the last few weeks, several break-ins have occurred in the Yuba College parking lots. The thieves have taken the radios from the center consoles; one incident resulted in the theft of the vehicle itself.

Yuba College police officers have stepped up patrols in both the East and West parking in an effort to deter potential burglars, as well as handing out fliers with helpful information (see picture) that may help prevent burglary. The fliers detail what issues a given vehicle may have, with a checklist indicating whether a vehicle has open windows, unlocked doors, or valuables visible in the cab. Officer B. Green, who tends the parking lots alongside police cadets, said "In the last two days, we've placed about twelve hundred fliers." He also estimated that ninety-nine percent of the vehicles have visible burglary threats. "It's hard to keep everything out of sight," Officer Green went on to say, "but the idea is: out of sight is out of mind."

While there is no way to completely secure any vehicle, there are a few measures that can be taken in order to deter break-ins and theft:

• Lock your vehicle and close the windows and sunroof
• Keep any electronic devices, such as GPS units or satellite radios out of sight
• Hide or remove any documentation that may have your personal information on it
• Remove and secure your radio's faceplate (if possible)
• Place jewelry in discreet locations (ash tray, glove compartment, etc.) or leave it at home

Yuba College police officers have no leads as to who may be behind the rash of burglaries, and encourage anyone with information to contact local authorities immediately and report anything they may know. Students and staff are likewise urged to report immediately and fully any suspicious activities in the parking lots or anywhere else on campus. The Yuba College Police Department may be reached twenty-four hours a day for non-emergency situations at (530) 741-6771, or at (530) 870-1158 for any calls made after 4:30 PM. For emergencies, the number to always call is 9-1-1

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