The Fort Myers Police Department is asking residents to help us reduce crime in 2015 by following “Park Smart.” Take your keys, secure your valuables and lock your vehicle. An overwhelming amount of vehicle thefts and vehicle burglaries are due to unsecured vehicles and owners leaving valuables in plain sight. Theft from vehicles is one of the most easily prevented crimes. It only takes a few seconds for a thief to open an unlocked door and grab whatever is visible.
These crimes tend to occur during the overnight hours where thieves often remove hundreds of dollars’ worth of valuables in seconds. Thieves simply help themselves to items such as purses, wallets, cell phones, computers and GPS systems that were left in plain sight. Along with “Park Smart” residents may find the following procedures helpful while parking out in the community or at your residence:
- Lock your doors.
- Take your keys.
- Don’t leave valuables in your car.
- Take all valuables with you or place them in your trunk—if possible, before reaching your destination.
- Never leave a vehicle running and unattended. It’s not only dangerous but against the law.
- Do not leave your garage door opener inside the vehicle.
Don’t be afraid of being wrong about whether or not someone has a legitimate purpose for being in the community. If you see anyone acting suspicious, looking into cars or trying door handles please do not hesitate to call the Fort Myers Police Department. Call police even for a gut feeling or a hunch. Be a good witness and let us investigate further. “We will continue to push this valuable message because it absolutely works if followed,” said police spokesperson Lieutenant Victor Medico.
Lieutenant Victor Medico
Public Information Officer
Fort Myers Police Department
2210 Widman Way
Fort Myers, Florida 33901
(239) 321-7748
vmedico@fmpolice.com