Over 100 Illegal Car Entries In Gwinnett In Sept.: How To Prevent

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA — Gwinnett County residents have reported 102 cases of people unlawfully entering their cars between Sept. 1 and 11, according to the police department, prompting the department to release a list of tips.

High on the list is locking cars, as 58 percent of vehicle unlawful entries happen when cars are unlocked, the department said.

Here's a list of what police said is best to do to prevent unlawful car entries:

• Always lock your vehicle and close your windows completely, as perpetrators force down windows that are left partially open
• Park your vehicle in well-lit areas and report burned lights to the property's management
• Pull on your door handle as you leave to ensure your car is locked
• Report suspicious vehicles or individuals you see in your community
• Don't leave valuable items in parked cars including purses, iPods, cellphones, cameras, laptops and even loose change, as it can attract burglars

Police say perpetrators often move from area to area to make it difficult to anticipate where they will strike next.