Police seek assistance in curbing auto burglaries

The Ponca City Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in helping curb what has become a high number of automobile burglaries.

“Citizens have been reporting to us a high number of auto burglaries over the last several months. These have occurred primarily overnight and in vehicles that were left unlocked. Most of the time, property taken from the vehicle includes random change and items of little value,” states Detective Captain Kevin Jeffries.

“We are asking for the public’s assistance in helping us in curbing this crime of opportunity. First, please remember to lock your vehicles at night. While there have been a few reported instances of thieves breaking windows on cars to get inside of them, this occurs a very small number of times,” Jeffries said.

“The persons involved in going through these cars at night literally walk up and down our streets checking door handles. If the cars are locked, they move on. They will go through unlocked cars quickly to take what is readily available and then move on,” he said.

“Second, we ask that you take anything of significant value inside your home,” Jeffries said.  “While reviewing recent reported burglaries, we have seen other items stolen, such as prescription medication, cell phones, computers, tools and multiple firearms.”

Jeffries said officers will be stepping up enforcement and presence overnight, as wel.

“If you see or hear anything that seems suspicious, please call us and let us know,” he said.