Watch out for vehicular break-ins in Annandale

Thanks to a blog reader for alerting us about a string of recent vehicle break-ins in Annandale’s Ravensworth-Bristow neighborhood. Someone entered the reader’s two cars—they were unlocked—but didn’t take anything, passing on the loose change and CDs inside. His neighbor’s car was locked, and the vandals smashed a window and took an iPod and GPS device.

The larceny spree on Dec. 3 affected eight homes in the vicinity of the 4900 block of Terrell Street and the 7600 block of Royston Street. The break-ins were reported to the West Springfield Police Department.

A flyer from the WSPD suggests removing GPS devices and attachments when you leave your car and keep moist towlettes on hand so you can remove the ring stains from your windshield if your device uses suction cups to attach to your windshield.
Lt. Gun M. Lee, assistant commander of the Mason District Police Station, said there have also been about six to 12 vehicular break-ins along Little River Turnpike between Prosperity Avenue and Prince William Drive.

He urges people to park under streetlights, make sure your car doors are locked, look around when walking to your car, and call the police immediately if you see a suspicious individual or activity. And if your community doesn’t have a Neighborhood Watch program, he suggests starting one.