Recent Increase in Automobile Burglaries in Jackson, Tenn. and Safety Tips

Nov 22, 2024 at 4:53 AM
Jackson, Tenn. is currently facing a concerning rise in automobile burglaries. The Jackson Police Department is taking steps to inform the community about how to keep their items safe. Lieutenant Phillip Stanfield, commander of the General Investigation Unit for JPD, has provided valuable advice.

Protect Your Vehicle and Valuables from Burglaries

Common Target Areas

Cars are not targeted at specific locations. Parking lots, apartment complexes, and neighborhoods are all areas where automobiles may be at risk. These burglaries typically last only a few minutes, between one and five. Sometimes, criminals break the glass to enter the car, while other times, the cars are left unlocked.

To prevent your car from being targeted, it is advisable to park around more cars and under street lights. This makes it more difficult for criminals to operate unnoticed. Additionally, for holiday shoppers, it is safer to shop in groups.

Avoid Leaving Valuables in the Car

Never leave valuable items inside your car, especially guns. Many criminals are arming themselves with the guns they steal from citizens' cars. By keeping your guns with you, on you, or securing them in the house when you're not at work, you can help reduce the risk.

If you must leave your gun in the car, purchase a gun lock and place it in a location that cannot be seen through a window. This provides an extra layer of security.

Secure Deliveries

For those who shop online, it is crucial to ensure that your items are secured during delivery. If an item is very valuable, have it delivered to a UPS store or an Amazon drop box. These locations are more secure and require a code to access.

By following these safety tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of your car being burglarized and protect your valuable items.