Full Notification

Over the past few weeks the City of San Luis Obispo has experienced an increase in property related crimes, specifically thefts from parked vehicles. These thefts are occurring mostly in the early morning hours while still under the cover of darkness. In many of these recent cases the vehicles were unlocked providing easy access to the thieves.

Property crime is often a crime of opportunity. Suspects are always on the lookout for easy targets and are more than willing to take advantage of others. Simple but effective tips to protect yourself from being a victim include the following:

• Keep your vehicle locked at all times
• Remove valuables from vehicles
• If valuables must remain in the vehicle, move them to locked compartments
• Park your vehicle in a secured area such as a garage whenever possible
• Park in well-lit areas
• Add motion activated lighting to driveways or other areas where vehicles are parked
• Be on the lookout for individuals walking through neighborhoods in the early morning hours, frequently in dark clothing and carrying backpacks

The San Luis Obispo Police Department is actively working to apprehend those responsible for these thefts. Although we often engage in proactive patrol efforts to reduce this type of crime we are asking citizens to be vigilant in protecting their property and keep a watchful eye in their residential neighborhoods.