Ventura County Sheriff – Incident Press Release
In the first five months of 2020, the city of Fillmore and the surrounding unincorporated county areas have seen a significant increase in the theft of vehicles and farming equipment. In most cases, the owners left their keys inside the unlocked vehicle. There has also been an increase in stolen farm equipment due to sheds or storage containers being left unsecure. These thefts are crimes of opportunity and only take seconds for the criminals to steal a vehicle or equipment and complete their crimes.
The Fillmore Police Department would like to remind residents of Fillmore that crimes of opportunity exist because criminals choose targets that offer high reward with little resistance. Residents are reminded that the easiest way to avoid becoming a victim of this crime is to never leave ignition keys in your vehicles and do your best to secure sheds or structures on your property. This makes it difficult for these offenders to complete their crimes.
The Sheriff’s Office is asking residents to be aware of these circumstances and is encouraging owners to park their vehicles or equipment in well-lit areas, inside their garage, and to lock their vehicles doors. It is also best to retain possession of your key to help prevent theft. The Sheriff’s Office is also asking citizens to report any suspicious activity or subjects tampering with parked vehicles with tools or other equipment. Lock it, Hide it, Keep it.
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