In Burbank, auto burglaries have become more than a nuisance. The problem is starting to tarnish the city’s already battered reputation. Not only are the locals talking about “all those auto burglaries,” but so are folks who come into the Media City for entertainment or to work.
A friend of mine who lives in Pasadena, sometimes drives to town to see a movie at the AMC. She has heard about the auto thefts and no longer parks in the lot near the Island’s restaurant for that reason. I live here — and I’m getting apprehensive about parking in certain places — especially in the downtown area.
On the weekly crime log issued by the Burbank Police yesterday, there were a number of auto burglaries. Four of the auto break-ins happened at the Sears and Ikea parking structures during the past few days. The items ripped off included GPS systems, an IPod, and the 3rd row seats from an SUV.
Also last weekend, a string of auto burglaries occurred in the 4400 block of Sarah Street with more GPS systems and another IPod stolen. Also, yesterday the BPD sent out a crime alert about these crimes.
String of Auto
Burglaries
Area of 4400 block Sarah Street
This residential area of Burbank experienced a total of 5 auto burglaries over the last weekend of November 6th and 7th. The burglaries have occurred during the late night to early morning hours. The losses range from GPS systems, sunglasses, IPod, and other personal items. This Crime Alert is to inform the Burbank community of this crime trend and to remind vehicle owners to take valuable items with them or keep them out of view.
If you see any suspicious activity, please obtain as much information as possible about the individuals and contact the Burbank Police Department directly at 1-818-238-3000.
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This crime alert is posted on the city of Burbank website, too.
Also, the Burbank Police is is out to crack down on these persistent thieves with some undercover operations as well: “…we’re putting out unmarked units and plain clothes officers,” according to Burbank Police Spokesman, Sergeant Robert Quesada. Hopefully, Police Chief, Scott LaChasse, is providing these operations with the kind of resources that will produce some results soon.