HRM Partners in Policing ask public to help stop thefts from vehicles.

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Theft from Motor Vehicles continues to be an ongoing issue right across Halifax Regional Municipality. Thieves continue to target valuable items such as GPS units, laptop computers, cell phones and other electronics. In the majority of these incidents, the vehicles were left unlocked, but there have been cases where the thieves smashed a window to gain entry.

Recently, the area in and around Brunswick Street in south end Halifax was targeted by thieves; residential parts of Lower Sackville have also been hit in recent weeks. HRM Partners in Policing will continue to target enforcement and patrols around the areas being affected as well as local beaches, parks, and known 'hotspot' areas.

Police are asking the public to reduce their chances of becoming victims. In addition to electronics, thieves will often steal cash or anything else that can be easily carried from a vehicle. Police would like to remind the public of the importance of not leaving anything of value in the car. Criminals are opportunistic and will take whatever they can.

Police want people to use the ASK principle when exiting their vehicle:A - Always lock your vehicle S - Stash your purchases in the trunk or under the seat K - Keep all valuables out of your car

The public can help prevent this crime of opportunity. Anyone who sees suspicious activity in or around parked vehicles should report it to police immediately. In HRM, they are asked to call the non-emergency line at (902) 490-5020 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).