NEW — 4:05 p.m. Oct. 27, 2015
Newcastle Police Chief Melinda Irvine is asking residents to take precautions to protect property after a recent rash of evening residential garage burglaries.
The suspects are getting into cars in front of houses and using garage door openers to gain entry, Irvine said in an e-news blast. Suspects are going through and taking items from the cars and garages, she said.
Residents should call police if they see anything suspicious at home or on surveillance video. Call 911 or the non-emergency dispatch number 206-296-3311.
Irvine also offered these tips to keep your property safe:
- Park your cars inside a closed and locked garage (now is a great time for a fall cleanup to make room).
- Always remove anything of value from you vehicle, no matter where you park — keys, wallets, computers, GPS units.
- If parking outside, remove items that may appear to conceal items (coats on seats, bags, etc.) and lock your cars.
- Before going to bed, make sure your garage door is closed (officers may contact you if they find your door open to be sure no crime occurred).
- Always lock the door leading from inside your garage into your house.
If you have any information that may help solve these crimes, contact Detective Christy Marsalisi at 206-263-9140 or file an anonymous tip here.
Irvine encourages neighbors to work together to prevent crimes in the area. Learn how to start a Block Watch program by contacting Officer Anthony Taglieri at Anthony.taglieri@kingcounty.gov.
“Newcastle is a very safe place to live and our partnership with the community will keep it that way,” Irvine said. “Thank you for your help.”