Coast law enforcement authorities share theft protection tips

Vehicle burglaries have been happening more than usual around the Coast lately, but with newer technology catching criminals has become easier.

Police departments in the area want to make sure you and your belongings are safe after certain parts of the Coast have seen a rise in vehicle burglaries.

Biloxi Police Captain Brian Dykes tells News 25 that they are seeing many vehicle burglaries at the casinos. “Over the last several weeks we had a string of vehicle burglaries, very few residential burglaries but mostly vehicle burglaries, both in the residential areas and at the casinos.”

Gulfport and Biloxi police department tell News 25 that when it comes to car burglaries, they are a crime of intent and the easiest way to prevent this crime is to lock your door. Gulfport PD Public Information Officer Sgt. Jason Ducre said, “Lock your doors. Get into a routine. I have a routine every night. I make sure I click the remote just to make sure it is locked.”

Captain Dykes said, “Locking your car number one. Securing your property is the number one way to stop this.”

With vehicle burglaries, you want to make it difficult for someone to enter your car. “Park it in a well-lit area, take all of your valuables and put them out of sight, in a glove box, in the trunk.”

Due to new technology, it is easier to capture photos of suspects and make an arrest quicker to prevent a crime spree. “Now-a-days, it’s easy and cheap to get a home security system.”

While Biloxi has seen an uptick, Gulfport has not seen a significant rise in crime, but they still need the public’s help in identifying a vehicle burglar on the loose.

If you have any information contact the Gulfport Police Department or Crime Stoppers.