MANSFIELD — The holiday season is over, but local thieves have continued to feast on vehicles in Mansfield.
Mansfield Safety-Service Director Lori Cope said there were 19 thefts from vehicles reported in the first two days of 2019. In 15 of the thefts, the vehicles were left unlocked, police said. In three thefts, thieves smashed windows to gain access.
“We must be diligent with locking our doors at all times,” Cope said. “We invite thieves in with unlocked doors, cars parked in unlit areas, and with valuables in plain view.
“Take the extra second to bring any valuables inside and please contact the police if you notice anything suspicious in your neighborhood,” Cope said.
Cope said most “smash and grabs” are a product of thieves taking advantage of an opportunity because they see something in a car they want.
Reduce “smash and grabs” by ensuring you never leave items on your seats, dashboard, or on the floor. These items include purses, laptops or laptop bags, briefcases and backpacks, electronic devices, and even loose change.
