Sat-nav smash and grab thieves thrive

Jun 4 2009 by Sam Casey, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Det Con Conlon said: “There is probably a handful of people doing this, but if sat-navs are left on display, they are a temptation to any would-be criminal.

“We just need to remind people that sat-navs should not be left on display in unoccupied vehicles and any indication that the vehicle contains a sat-nav needs to be removed.

“That includes the cradle and charger, but also any mark left on the window where the sat nav has been attached.

“All equipment should also be property marked.”

The advice comes about a month after 13 break-ins in 48 hours in the Birkby and Fartown areas.

Among the items taken were satellite navigation systems, laptop computers, a games console, CD players, leather jackets and a digital camera.

Police described the list of stolen goods as an “Aladdin’s cave” of booty.

Det Con Conlon said: “A thief might break into your car for something as insignificant as loose change left on the dashboard.

“Make sure the car is secure and that you have done everything to deter thieves – even if that means emptying the glovebox and leaving it open to show that there’s nothing in it.”