Ventura Police Department – Incident Press Release
From March 15, 2020 through March 30, 2020, the City of Ventura experienced a 200% increase in stolen vehicles compared to March 1, 2020 through March 14, 2020. During the month of March, Ventura Police Officers took a total of 20 stolen vehicle reports. Most of the reported incidents involved victims who left keys inside unlocked vehicles.
Analysis of these crimes reveal that a vehicle’s year, make, and model does not increase the likelihood that it will be targeted. Vehicle crimes predominantly occurred after dark between the hours of 7:00PM – 3:00AM and many of the targeted vehicles were left unlocked. Offenders did find keys in some of these unlocked vehicles which contributed to the higher count of stolen vehicles.
These are crimes of opportunity. The Ventura Police Department would like to remind residents that unlocked vehicles represent an attractive target and thieves are known to regularly pull car handles to check for unlocked vehicles as they walk down a street.
Residents can reduce their chances of becoming victims of this type of crime by reviewing the following crime prevention tips:
1. Never leave your vehicle running or the keys in the ignition when you’re away from it, even for “just a minute.”
2. Never leave a spare key in your vehicle or hidden on your vehicle. Surfers, be sure to take your keys with you!
3. Always roll up the windows and lock the car, even if it’s parked right in front of your home.
4. Never leave valuable in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk or remove them completely.
5. Make it a priority to park in busy, well-lighted areas.
If residents fall victim to vehicle theft, they are encouraged to report by calling the Ventura Police 24/7 non-emergency number at 805-650-8010.
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