Deputies Warn Duarte Residents of Increased Auto Burglaries

Written by AARON CASTREJON
CityWatch Editor

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DUARTE - Five reported vehicle burglaries have been reported in a roughly five-day period, deputies said Tuesday.

The burglaries occurred from about March 24 to March 29. Deputies noted that the burglaries occurred as a result of personal property being left out in plain view.

Two burglaries were reported between Wednesday, March 24 to Thursday, March 25 in the 1300 block of Royal Oaks Drive. In both cases the front driver-side windows to the sedans were smashed. Only one vehicle had property taken, though, deputies said.

A burglary was reported in the 2200 block of Huntington Drive Monday, March 25 between 4:15 a.n 5 a.m. Snow chains were taken after a rear passenger window to a Cadillac Escalade was smashed.

A burglary was reported in the 1300 block of Huntington Drive at the 99 Cents Only Store March 26 at 8 a.m. A backpack was taken after a rear passenger window was smashed to a car.

A burglary was reported between Thursday, March 28 and Friday, March 28 after a lock was removed from a Chevrolet Silverado truck. Sunglasses and more than $4,000 in plumbing tools were taken.

Deputies announced the arrest of one suspect tied to these burglaries in Duarte and surrounding communities.

Deputies offer tips to prevent being a victim of vehicle burglary:

• Do not leave valuable items visible in your car. Car Burglary is a crime of opportunity, be sure to keep your car clean from any clutter.
• Don’t think your dark tinted windows will hide your valuables. Thieves often use flashlights to see through tint.
• Close all windows and lock all doors before leaving your vehicle.
• Park in well-lit, heavily populated areas.
• Make a copy of your registration and insurance, and keep them in your wallet or purse.  Then remove all forms of identification from your vehicle.  Anyone with permission to drive your vehicle should also have a copy of the registration and insurance with them to furnish to the police if necessary.
• Do not leave garage door openers in parked vehicles.
• If you are parking your vehicle for several days check on it periodically.