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Car burglaries on rise in structure 5

By Dave Rosenfeld
State Press

Vehicle burglaries are on the rise in parking structure five, ASU police warned Wednesday.

From Jan. 18-25, police reported 11 incidents of stolen property from parking structure five on the north side of campus. Although it's not unheard of, excessive incidents in the concrete structure have police on increased alert.

"It (spotting thieves) is tough in a parking garage because there are all these levels," said ASU police Sgt. Richard Wilson. "These burglaries create a flag. It's an indicator that this particular area is the focus of some specific people."

In response to recently abundant burglaries, ASU police sent undercover officers to monitor the parking compound. On Tuesday, a suspicious vehicle sped off before officers could contact the driver. Officers plan to continue surveillance until the burglaries subside or a suspect is in custody, Wilson said.

Some students who park in the structure were unaffected by the rising incidents of theft.

"You can't stop what's going to happen," said Kitch Kitchen, a business information systems senior, who frequently parks in the structure. "You hope that parking is as safe as possible and park in good faith. If something happens, then tough luck."

Psychology sophomore Katie Schwartz said she feels lucky that her car hasn't been burglarized. She leaves a book of CDs in it every day.

"It seems like it would be really easy," she said.

However, others are more skeptical.

"I park here almost everyday, but I wouldn't leave my car here overnight," said Erin Dullea, an undeclared freshman.

To avoid falling victim to vehicle burglary, Wilson suggested keeping valuable items hidden or not in the car at all.

"You're a potential victim every time you leave valuables in your car," he said.

Most of the items stolen were CDs, stereo equipment or miscellaneous valuables. Wilson said the police need students' help to apprehend suspects.

"If you see people or cars cruising up and down that don't look like they belong there, jump on a call box," he said. "For us to catch these people is really a matter of luck -- being at the right place at the right time."

Dave Rosenfeld can be reached by e-mail at david.rosenfeld@asu.edu.