POLICE have issued a warning to people living in the Eastbourne area of Darlington after seven thefts from vehicles were reported over the past month.
This was an increase of two incidents from the previous month and police believe they were opportunistic crimes.
One break-in occurred when a woman left her handbag on show and another happened when the car owner left their laptop computer on the passenger seat.
The incidents were discussed at Eastbourne's Community Safety Meeting, which was held yesterday, in Maidendale House, Burnside Road.
Sergeant Mark Ralphs said the simple message to residents was to move valuables from the car, or lock them out of view in the boot, and to ensure the car's windows and doors were secure.
"Sadly these incidents are happening all over," said Sgt Ralphs.
"But people can protect their vehicles by simply removing valuables and keeping their vehicles locked."
The next Eastbourne Community Safety Meeting will take place at Maidendale House on Wednesday, December 7, from 10am.
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