Tis the season for fancy toys and New Years resolutions… It is also a great time for thieves to take advantage of your new techy gifts and good intentions. As we all head to the gym for that much needed work out, PLEASE be aware that Theft from Auto is the crime of opportunity for the season. While you are at work – take your gym bag with you or lock it up. That I-pod and your sweaty socks are just what a thief is looking for. While in the gym, at yoga, or going for a jog – put your work and personal electronics, (laptop, I-pad, phone, camera or GPS) purse, wallet and jewelry IN YOUR TRUNK before you arrive at your destination or spend the 2 bucks to rent a locker at the gym and USE A GOOD LOCK! Please, do not leave any of these items in the passenger compartment of your vehicle. Do not think you are fooling anyone by tucking your belongings under a seat, blanket, or a coat. It takes a thief just a few seconds to break a window and steal your valuables. Even if YOU do not think it is worth much (loose change or a shopping bag with your discarded fast food leftovers in it) a thief sees an opportunity. Is it worth a broken window, damage to your vehicle or the hassle? Remove the temptation and reduce the opportunity DO NOT leave ANY items in your vehicle. Lock your doors – even in a secured garage Never leave your vehicle “warming up” with the keys in the ignition Park in well lit, well traveled areas Keep an electronics inventory list with serial numbers - police recovered items will not be returned to you without proper documentation FILE A POLICE REPORT - Call 911 if the thief has left behind evidence or call 311 or www.minneapolismn.gov to file a theft report Renee Allen Minneapolis Police Department 1st Precinct- Crime Prevention Specialist Renee.Allen@Minneapolismn.gov