By Nothing’s too small for thieves to break into your car to steal – as one unlucky driver in Grimsby found out when their window was smashed to steal 50p.
Officers are actively advising motorists of the risks of leaving things on display in vehicles as part of a drive to reduce this kind of offending in our area.
And you can dramatically reduce the risk of your car being targeted by making sure there’s nothing there to tempt thieves – no matter how small it may be.
Inspector Dave Stephenson, from the Grimsby East Neighbourhood team said: “These criminals are opportunists and are on the look-out for easy targets, so it’s just not worth the risk of leaving anything where it can be seen.
“Nothing is too small a target. From CDs left in door pockets and jackets left on the back seat, to the spare change in the centre console – we have even had incidents in the past where windows have been smashed to steal bags of sweets.
“Recently we have had reports of all kinds of things being stolen, from holdalls to satnav systems, tools and cash. In one case, all that was stolen was 50p.
“It only takes seconds to smash a car window and grab whatever is inside. “Then you’re left with a £100+ bill for replacing the window and all the hassle that goes with it, as well as losing whatever it was that they have stolen.
“The easiest way to help us protect you from these opportunist thieves is not to leave anything in your car.”
As a result of these ongoing enquiries, Lee Gresham, 36, of Rufford Road, Cleethorpes has been charged with interfering with two cars on June 20, handling stolen goods between May 5 and May 7 and five counts of fraud related to using a stolen bank card on May 7.
He is remanded to go on trial before Grimsby and Cleethorpes Magistrates Court on October 21
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