Cop Calls: Police Issue Crime Alert in Newport Community

Newport Beach police have responded to an increase in residential burglaries in and around the Dover Shores and Mariners Communities over the last several months, and are encouraging residents to be more vigilant.

Police say since the beginning of October, have been reported in the communities and in several of the cases the suspect entered the garage and took items from unlocked cars.

• Police say on Dec. 20 a man was arrested for a burglary that took place in the 1800 block of Galaxy Drive and though detectives say the suspect may be responsible for several of the recent burglaries, more incidents have continued to occur.

• The burglaries have occurred at various times, both day and night. Police say during the most recent burglary on Mariners Drive this week, the suspect entered the residence while the victim was asleep and took a purse and iPhone from the dining room table.

• In several cases the suspect entered through an unlocked door or open window. In one case the suspect activated the alarm and fled.

• In addition to the burglaries, there have been approximately 18 thefts from unlocked vehicles within the same area. Police say residents should always lock their vehicle and remove valuables. Watch a video about vehicle safety produced by Newport Beach police for more tips.

Safety Tips:

• Install a deadbolt lock in all doors leading from your garage to your home or outside.

• Use a vacation bolt or padlock in the garage door’s track, ¼ inch above the roller when the door is in a closed position. This will prevent the door from opening in the event someone has a garage door opener with your door’s frequency.

• Cover your garage windows with curtains or blinds to prevent a burglar from seeing what you keep in your garage.

• Lock bikes and other valuables to something stationary within the garage.

• It only takes seconds to remove property from an open garage, never leave your garage doors open even for short periods of time, when you are not present.

• Consider improving the lighting on your property, criminals like to work in the dark.

• Put your Neighborhood Watch to work. Make a strong commitment to knowing and watching out for each other.

Newport Beach police say if you arrive at your home and notice something out of place that leads you to think someone has been in your home while you were out, go to a safe location and call 911. If you notice suspicious activity in your neighborhood, call 949-644-3717 immediately.