After a long day spent Christmas shopping, the SUV was filled with holiday goodies: a plasma screen TV for dad, something sparkly for mom, an Xbox for their son, and an iPod for their daughter. The couple parked in front of a nice restaurant, locked up and went inside to celebrate with dinner and a few drinks. Ninety minutes later, they were horrified when they returned to their car to find the rear window smashed and all their gifts gone. They were devastated.
It's a scene police and criminal defense attorneys say is playing out far too often in L.A. mall parking lots and in shopping districts, particularly this holiday. One more fallout from the poor economy, theft, burglary and shoplifting are on the rise in Los Angeles and across the country. "Criminals are Christmas shopping this time of year," said Police Lt. Heinz von Eckartsberg.
Most thieves are opportunists. If they see packages through your car window or you leave your car unlocked in your driveway or you leave your garage open, thieves are only too willing to accept what they view as an invitation to steal. Thieves are just waiting for you to make a mistake. To deter thieves, police recommend that women keep handbags strapped across their bodies rather than in their hands. Men should carry wallets in front, not back, pockets.
To protect your purchases, Los Angeles criminal defense attorney Stephen Rodriguez cautions holiday shoppers to take a few safety precautions:
- Roll up all windows, close sunroofs and lock all car doors.
- Don't do all your shopping in one trip.
- Shop with a friend; don't shop alone.
- Don't leave valuables or packages in plain view. When shopping, take a car with a lockable trunk or at least cover purchases with a blanket.
- If you stow packages in your car but plan to continue shopping, first move your car in case you're being watched.
- Don't walk to your car alone. Some stores and malls offer security escorts to your vehicle.
- Take advantage of valet services.
- Park in lighted areas and watch for loiterers when you walk to your car. If you feel uneasy, do not go continue to your car. Return to the store and contact security or police.
Theft, burglary, robbery and shoplifting are crimes in California and can carry fines, jail time and a criminal record that can make it difficult to find a job. The Los Angeles law offices of Stephen Rodriguez can tell you what to expect from California theft laws if you are caught stealing and provide you with the best possible defense.
