If a rash of car break-ins during the summer of 2013 didn’t convince residents to start locking their car doors, recent incidents on Comstock Drive may.
Haines Borough Police Chief Bill Musser said callers reported four unlocked cars on Comstock Drive were rifled between Oct. 15 and Oct. 18. Nothing was stolen.
“There appear to have been a number of cars entered with the glove boxes and console areas gone through and left open,” Musser said.
The vehicles were parked in driveways.
Musser urged people to keep their cars locked. “While Haines is a wonderful place to live and we are able to get to know our neighbors, we also have to be aware that there is a small element in our community that are aware of our trusting way of life. That way of life includes leaving our cars unlocked, often times with valuables inside,” he said.
“The unlawful entry into a vehicle is often for things like the change or petty cash we may keep inside the car; quick access to CDs, cell phones, or other portable electronics; or the car itself, if your keys are in it,” Musser added. “Please be aware of the potential for crime to come home to you, and take a few steps to help prevent it by locking your vehicles, securing valuables, and reporting occurrences like this.”
Police have not officially initiated a case, as the people merely reported the incidents and did not request officers initiate a case, Musser said.
“We do track the information if a case is not initiated, as it may lead to indicators we can use for establishing a modus operandi,” Musser said.
Musser used the example of a rash of cut padlocks that started in late July. Though several incidents were reported without anything being taken, the Alaska Seaplanes office at the airport had its lock cut and $150 taken in late September.
“When the break-in at the Seaplanes office occurred, we had a similarity in (method of operation) with a reported crime and victim. A case was initiated on the break-in. Regarding the cars on Comstock – the people advising did not find anything missing, but knew the car had been gone through. At this time there is no theft, no property damage, so no criminal mischief. At best we have a potential trespass,” he said.
In June 2013, more than 30 unlocked vehicles were rifled downtown. Stolen items included cash, prescription medication, credit cards, stereo equipment, cameras, firearm ammunition and other belongings. Police have yet to bring charges, though they have identified suspects.