Police warn of holiday thieves

LYNN – It’s the most wonderful time of the year – for thieves, police say.Crimes of opportunity tend to spike in December, which has Lynn police reminding everyone to take precautions to prevent becoming a victim.”During this busy time of year it can become easy to lose awareness of your surroundings, making yourself an unwitting target to thieves,” Lynn police spokesman Lt. William Sharpe said.Lynn police say decoys will be used in various locations where officers play the role of potential victims for pickpockets and burglars intent on committing crimes.”These methods can keep thieves guessing and help deter such crimes,” Sharpe said.Police warn that pickpockets often work in pairs. It’s important to remember that if someone out of the ordinary is distracting you, his or her partner might be going through your purse or pockets without you realizing it.The criminals might ask for directions or the time, taking advantage of people’s good will.”When shopping, you should take the time to notice who is around you,” Sharpe said. “If a situation or person causes you to feel uncomfortable, trust your instincts and simply walk away.”Police urge shoppers to keep wallets and cash in garments or pockets that are not easily accessible.Shoppers should also protect their parked cars. Burglars often target cars where expensive GPS units or satellite radios are in plain view.”You should take small items such as GPS units with you,” Sharpe said. “Make sure the imprint of the suction cup device used to secure it to the windscreen is wiped clear,” as to not give the thief an idea that a GPS might be hidden elsewhere in the car.”All items of value that must remain in the vehicle should be hidden from view,” he said. “Even power cords for electrical devices such as cell phones, PDAs and laptops should be stored away and out of sight.”Police also urge shoppers to park their cars in well-lit areas.”The key to preventing victimization is awareness of your surroundings,” Sharpe said.