Beware of Thefts From Cars, Police Warn Capitol Hill Residents

Police are warning Hill residents about a rash of car break-ins and urging locals to hide valuables.

Eleven thefts from cars occurred in eight days within Police Service Area 107, police told residents this week. The zone where thieves struck covers most of Capitol Hill; PSA 107 is roughly bound by Maryland Avenue NE, 13th Street, G Street SE and 2nd Street.

Here’s the alert sent by the First District:

PSA 107 Community,

Over the past (8) days PSA 107 has experienced (11) Theft from Autos.

All Theft from Autos usally have one thing in common: THERE IS SOMETHING LEFT IN THE VEHICLE WORTH STEALING. Most Theft from Autos are crimes of opportunity that could be easily be prevented by taking some preventive measures. PSA 107 officers recommend the following:

• Dont leave valuables (GPS units, I-PODS, I-PADS, cell phones, loose change, packages, clothing, pocketbooks, bags, etc.) in your vehicle in plain sight; place all items out of sight before parking.
• Remove evidence of valuables such as GPS suction cups, mounting brackets, and cell phone chargers.
• Try to park in a well lit area.
• Install and use an alarm system in your vehicle.
• Lock ALL of your vehicle’s doors.

Your cooperation in assisting the Metropolitan Police Department in protecting your property from theft and damage is greatly appreciated.

Metropolitan Police Department data shows the number of reported thefts from cars in PSA 107 this year so far has dropped in comparison with the previous 21-day period. In 2015 thus far, 19 thefts from cars have been reported, compared with 37 in the previous stretch. Thefts from cars dropped about 4 percent in the past year, the data shows.

Residents can speak with police about crime and safety in PSA 107 at the next monthly meeting. It’s set be held in Southeast Library (403 7th St. SE) at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 12.

Photo via MPD