Street lamps aluminating Wittenberg’s campus made no difference to burgler(s) who broke into three different cars around Wittenberg in the early hours of February 7. (Photo by Kali Parmley, Staff Photographer)
A weekend full of car thefts resulting in smashed windows and stolen Global Positioning Systems (GPS), has left Wittenberg Police to ask students not to make themselves easy targets by leaving valuables visible to passerby’s.
Reports of three different car break-ins involving Wittenberg students and one attempted break-in of a non-student were reported to Wittenberg Police early Monday, Feb. 7, after burglar(s) smashed windows to reach GPS systems. The break-ins were reported to have happened between Bill Edwards Drive and Woodlawn Avenue, the parking lot between Firestine and Tower, between North Limestone and Madison, and the 1100 block of North Fountain in the early hours of Feb. 7.
“Students need to be more aware of today’s economic stresses,” said Chief Carl Loney. “There are people seeking out items such as GPS systems. Don’t make yourself an easy target.”
Campus security alert emails were sent soon after police reports were made, not to scare students according to Chief Loney, but to make students aware of the situation and to advise students on how to better protect their property. Police advise hiding valuables when away from your vehicle, and hiding power cords.
“Everyone needs to have a sense of awareness,” said Loney. “Leaving power cords out are a tell tale sign that you have something of value.”
To help prevent further break-ins, Wittenberg officers have been instructed to concentrate on certain areas around campus, and to keep an eye out for individuals who have a past history of theft. No suspects have been found, and Wittenberg police are urging students to report any suspicious activity.
“Conceal your items,” said Chief Loney. “Remember: out of sight, out of mind.”
(Kali Parmley / s11.kparmley@.wittenberg.edu)
