Lock it. That’s the message Wollongong police have for drivers after dozens of unlocked vehicles were found parked in driveways and on the street during recent patrols of the city’s northern suburbs.
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Just at the weekend, police dealt with at least two incidents of cars being left unlocked in one northern suburb – and Wollongong’s crime manager says the vehicle security message just doesn’t seem to be sinking in.
Detective Inspector Brad Ainsworth said officers had conducted a number of patrols of the city’s northern suburbs – from Corrimal to Helensburgh – and placed letters on cars that were left unsecured.
The letters, which had a car security information sheet attached to them, stated it was an offence to leave your vehicle unlocked and penalties – including fines worth about $110 – may apply.
“Whilst that is a last resort, it is an option we’ve got up our sleeve,” Det Insp Ainsworth said, adding that people needed to “take the temptation away from criminals”.
During last month’s patrols, 30 vehicles were found to have been left unlocked while parked in driveways and on the road overnight.
At the weekend, there were at least two incidents of cars being left unsecured with wallets and personal equipment visible inside at Woonona, Det Insp Ainsworth said.
Andrew Pearson
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
Andrew grew up in the western Riverina town of Hay and has strong ties to the region. He is a former DA journo who has a passion for breaking news and has covered everything from council and politics to crime and court.
