A rash of break-ins in recent days led the Philomath Police Department to issue a public service announcement this week urging local residents to be sure to lock their vehicles. There have also been some bicycle thefts.
“We’ve had an increase in bikes being left around town and one night this last week, we had multiple vehicle break-ins — unlocked vehicles with items taken and usually some of the items left nearby,” Philomath Police reported.
On Wednesday, wallets were reported as stolen from vehicles in the 200 block of South 24th Street, 2000 block of Main Street and 2400 block of Green Street. In one instance, the wallet was recovered in Corvallis and returned to the victim and in another, the wallet was found nearby but was missing the driver’s license and debit card.
The police department is asking the public to report bike thefts and vehicle thefts in part to help law enforcement return property to owners.
Philomath Police offer the following tips:
- Remove valuables or hide them out of sight. Even empty bags can attract attention.
- Lock all doors and windows, even if stepping away for just a moment.
- Park in well-lit, high-traffic areas when possible.
- Never leave keys or firearms in vehicles.
- Report suspicious activity right away.
Philomath Police can be reached at 541-929-6911 during regular hours or 541-766-6911 for nonemergency dispatch after hours.