Cops again ask rural residents to lock cars and homes amid burglaries

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Despite repeated urgings from police, officials say people in rural areas still leave vehicles and homes unlocked and end up the victims of crime.

"Lafourche Parish Sheriff Craig Webre is reminding vehicle owners to always lock unattended vehicles, especially overnight. Valuable items, including handguns, should also be removed and stored safely inside your home," according to a news release.

"Nearly every vehicle burglary over the past few years has occurred due to vehicles being left unlocked," Webre said. "Criminals are looking for easy targets and often attempt to burglarize many vehicles in one outing. It is extremely rare for a burglar to break a window or pry a door open to enter a vehicle unless they can clearly see something of value inside. By removing valuables and locking your vehicle, you dramatically decrease the chances your vehicle will be burglarized or stolen."

The Sheriff's office says that to ensure your vehicle is fully secure:

  • Double check doors to ensure automatic locks are working correctly
  • Ensure all windows are fully rolled up
  • Never leave a car unattended while the engine is running
  • Additionally, consider installing exterior lighting and surveillance cameras on your property, including where you park your vehicle. Lights will act as a deterrent, but cameras can help identify suspects if anything is stolen.

"Be smart about crime prevention," Webre urged. "While there is no way to guarantee you will not be a victim of a crime, following these simple routines will greatly reduce your risk of being victimized."

This all comes amidst a national campaign called the "9 p.m. Routine."

This national awareness campaign encourages citizens to remove valuables from their vehicles, lock their vehicles, and lock their home each night at or before 9 o' clock each night before going to bed.