In September 2005 a rash of vehicle burglaries was reported at recreational areas near Santa Paula, including the Sisar Creek and Santa Paula Creek areas that also offer access to hiking trails. Other recreational areas throughout Ventura County also were the scenes of vehicle burglaries, which authorities then believed might have been conducted by an organized group of thieves that included a lookout.In that series of vehicle burglaries, law enforcement learned that the thieves cased the area, watched the victims, and even placed lookouts before they smashed a window. Such thefts cause further expense when it comes to the loss of money for window repair and time.If you’re going to the hiking trails or any recreational area where you will be gone from your vehicle for any length of time, leave as many items as you can at home. All you need is an ID, perhaps some cash or a single credit card or check, and a cell phone.Anyone with any information on the recent vehicle burglaries near the Thomas Aquinas trailhead is urged to contact the VCSD or Crime Stoppers, 1-800-222-TIPS. Tipsters who give information that leads to an arrest and criminal conviction could receive up to $1,000.
Thomas Aquinas trailhead again scene of multiple vehicle burglaries
September 12, 2008
Santa Paula News
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Department is warning hikers that while they’re enjoying the trail near Thomas Aquinas College, it’s possible someone could be burglarizing their parked vehicles.
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesThe Ventura County Sheriff’s Department is warning hikers that while they’re enjoying the trail near Thomas Aquinas College, it’s possible someone could be burglarizing their parked vehicles. The rash of recent smash and grabs mimic a similar series of vehicle burglaries that occurred three years ago at the Thomas Aquinas trailhead, located in the 10000 block of Highway 150/Santa Paula-Ojai Road.According to the VCSD, 11 vehicles parked at the trailhead have been broken into during the past three weeks. Investigators believe burglars are waiting for hikers to park their cars and walk away before smashing windows and stealing valuables. The burglars seem to prefer cash, jewelry, iPods, credit cards and personal information that can later be used for identity theft.VCSD officials are recommending that people lock their vehicles after they remove all valuables, immediately report suspicious activity, and report thefts as soon as they are discovered. If you have a credit or bankcard stolen, cancel it immediately.