Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) has issued a public alert urging residents to be vigilant about vehicle break-ins, especially targeting women. The warning, which comes in response to a rise in vehicle thefts across the state, outlines how thieves are targeting unattended vehicles, particularly in areas where women are more likely to leave valuables inside.
The bulletin highlights that these thieves specifically target purses, wallets, and electronics. They use a method of observation in parking lots, waiting until the victim is out of sight before breaking into the vehicle. After the theft, the criminals use the stolen items, such as checkbooks and IDs, to fraudulently withdraw money from victims’ bank accounts.
According to the PSP, the criminals tend to target parking lots near gyms, shopping centers, state parks, and other public spaces. Thieves often approach vehicles in broad daylight, using a spring-loaded or hammer punch to break windows and steal valuables. The PSP stresses that these crimes tend to occur in areas with easy access to major highways, allowing the thieves to quickly flee the scene.
The PSP is urging residents to take preventative measures, such as locking doors, keeping valuables out of sight, and parking in well-lit areas. They also recommend installing a retractable cover in SUVs to shield valuables from plain view. Individuals who witness suspicious activity should report it to the authorities using the “See Something, Send Something” app or by contacting the Pennsylvania State Police at tips@pa.gov.
In the case of a vehicle break-in, the PSP encourages victims to file a police report and check their credit history for potential fraudulent activity. They also advise contacting credit card providers and local law enforcement if any items such as insurance cards or vehicle registration were stolen.
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