Rash of Car Thefts Spurs Police Warning
Police are warning residents in the north end of the city that a rash of car thefts from home driveways may signal the arrival of a bold, professional gang of car thieves.
Ten cars have been stolen from driveways since June 1 in the area between Gothard and Graham streets south of Warner Avenue, and two more were stolen from driveways in the city’s south end, said Suzie Wajda of the Police Department’s crime prevention unit.
No particular make or model of car is being targeted, and the thieves typically gain entry by breaking or prying open a vehicle window, Wajda said.
Two suspects have been arrested in connection with some of the thefts. One was identified as an 18-year-old Los Angeles gang member, suggesting that a roving gang may be hitting the area because of its proximity to the San Diego Freeway, said Mike Kelly, a department spokesman.
Citywide, 93 cars were stolen in June and 25 more in the first week of July, Kelly said. Of those, 77 vehicles were recovered, some as far away as Riverside County.
“We want to get the word out about the increase in residential targets and tell people to be on guard,” Kelly said.
Information: (714) 536-5933.
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