August 17, 2010 - The bad economy is not only hitting people's wallets; it's hitting their property as well.  The Vernon Hills Police Department is starting to see an increase in Burlgary to Motor Vehicles.  That's when someone takes stuff out of your car without your permission.  In most cases, it happens when you forget (or don't bother) to lock your car doors.  Sunglasses, coins, iPods, CDs, GPS units, radar detectors, cell phones and just about anything else the criminal can find will be stolen.  In some cases, the criminals will break the window because they can see these items in the car and can simply reach in and remove them without even entering the car.

Some of the thiefs are kids looking for something to do (or things to sell for drug money) and walk around a neighborhood, checking car doors to see if they're locked.  Some are more professional and carry tools with them to break windows.  Both are looking for the opportunity to steal.

Don't be a victim!  Double check to be sure your locks have activated.  (Some remote lock fobs can be programmed to beep the horn to advise you the locks are locked.)  Don't let children play with remote lock fobs - they like to press the buttons and may inadvertently unlock your car doors.  Also be sure to hide away all valuables.  It may take an extra moment or two to remove the GPS from your windshield (and you should also remove the holder), but it may deter a potential thieft from trying to enter your car.  If they can't see anything, they may not bother with your car and will move on to the next one.

If you have any information about these activities in Vernon Hills, please contact us at 847-362-4449 or use our anonymous tip line.