SAN FERNANDO : Police Say New Laws Deter Carjackings

Carjackings are on the decline in the northeast Valley, thanks in part to tough new federal laws, Los Angeles police officials said Wednesday.

Statistics show that carjackings dropped to 52 for the first three months of this year, down from 67 for the preceding three months, police said.

“A lot of it has to do with changes in punishment,” said Detective Ray Broker, who heads the robbery unit of the Foothill Division. Broker spoke to about 25 merchants during a Business Watch meeting held at San Fernando City Hall.

“The crooks realize they will be dealt with more severely and that deters them,” said Broker, who noted that carjackings make up 20% of all robberies reported in the 61-square-mile area covered by the Foothill Division.

Carjackers face 15 to 25 years in prison under a federal law that went into effect this year.

Broker, who shared tips with merchants about how to avoid being a crime victim, said most carjackings occur at night in gas stations and store parking lots. He suggests giving up a car if a person is ordered out at gunpoint.

“Give them what they want. The best thing you can do is become a good witness for police,” he said.

Merchants, for the most part, were not overly concerned about carjackings, asking questions about auto-theft devices and safety precautions while making bank deposits.

“I’m interested in staying aware. This helps me pass along the information to co-workers, friends and family,” said Michael Scott, an inspector with Van Nuys-based Corporate Air Parts.