VALDOSTA – The Valdosta Police Department is warning the community of the increase in thefts from vehicles around the Valdosta Mall.

Release:

Between August 1 and August 9, 2024, the Valdosta Police Department has responded to ten (10) theft by entering auto cases around the Valdosta Mall.  In all ten of these cases, the offender(s) forced entry into the vehicle by breaking a window and taking valuable items that were left in plain view in the car.  Purses, wallets, and money appear to be the most common items taken by the offender(s).  In six of the cases, the vehicle was left unattended for a time of less than two hours.

Based on information received by our responding officers, it appears the offender(s) are watching as people exit their vehicles and go inside the business. The offender(s) are then looking inside the vehicles for valuables. If they observe anything they feel could be valuable, they are breaking the windows and grabbing the items. The theft takes only seconds.

We are asking the public to be vigilant when leaving their vehicles unattended, no matter how long you may be inside a location.  Taking extra steps by taking valuables inside with you, or leaving them at home, lessens the chance of someone falling victim to a crime.

We are asking for everyone to be aware of their surroundings, and if you see something that is out of place or appears suspicious, please call 911.

If anyone has any further information on this case or any other cases, please contact the Valdosta Police Department Bureau of Investigative Services at 229-293-3145, the crime tip line at 229-293-3091, or file a tip online at www.valdostacity.com/police-department.