SPD investigates separate vehicle break-ins, thefts
December 14, 2011
By NATHAN GREGORY
sdnreporter@yahoo.com
Starkville investigators are looking for suspects following two separate automobile burglaries Tuesday.
After responding to the two incidents, SPD detectives are still in the process of investigating. No suspects have been named by the department.
The first incident was reported at approximately 8:30 a.m. in the Central Avenue area. Lt. Troy Outlaw said a report was filed after the owner of a parked car returned to the automobile to find it had been broken into within an hour of leaving it unattended. A bank card, credit card and driver’s license were reported missing from the vehicle, Outlaw said.
The second incident occurred between 5:45-8 p.m. on Forrest Hill Drive. Sgt. Landon Stamps said an outer building had been broken into as well as a vehicle. Stolen items included a laptop, Stamps said.
Stamps said residents should be particularly alert during the holiday season and take simple steps to prevent break-ins.
“It’s Christmas time — don’t make yourself an easy target,” Stamps said. “It’s as simple as covering up your valuables or not carrying them in your vehicle. Unplug iPods and GPS systems and hide them.”
Outlaw said he suggests keeping all valuables — in homes and vehicles — secured and hidden.
“People should be extra careful and double-check before they leave their homes to keep everything secure and all the doors locked,” he said. “Don’t leave purses unattended, carry small amounts of cash and lock your car doors. If you don’t lock them, don’t have any valuable items in your car.”
Officials also responded to a grand larceny Tuesday after Bulldog Shuttle Bus reported missing money from one of its drop boxes. An employee first noticed the money was missing Sunday. SPD is also investigating a July ring theft, but the department has no suspects in either of the incidents.
