Newton sees spike in car break-ins in July

PoliceCar

Newton police vehicle. Photo by Bryan McGonigle

Summer nights are perfect for outdoor concerts, al fresco dinner with friends, and—if you’re a criminal—walking around and breaking into cars.

Newton Police Department recently reported an uptick in car break-ins in July, as the long days and warm nights often conspire to bring out the vandals and thieves, and vehicles are an easy target.

“Car breaks happen, yes even in Newton!” the department posted on its Facebook page.

On one overnight Tuesday/Wednesday night shift, that post continues, there were 13 car breaks reported, with 12 in one neighborhood in Nonantum (in the North Street/Albemarle Road area).

Most of the vehicles broken into were unlocked, so police are reminding residents to always keep their car doors locked.

“When leaving your vehicle, take your valuables with you, close your windows and lock the doors,” it continues. “Remember to take your key/fob with you!”

In other police news, Newton police are joining with police in Waltham and Watertown as well as state police in patrolling the Charles River Bike Path this week.

“All four agencies will be sharing information and conducting joint patrols to ensure bicyclists, walkers, joggers and others enjoying the banks of the Charles are kept safe,” Lt. Amanda Henrickson said. “Our officers on foot, on bicycle, on UTV’s and our Troopers on the Mounted Unit look forward to seeing you out there!”