CARLSBAD — Carlsbad Police have launched the security awareness and crime prevention initiative, “Operation Report Card.”
Police officers and volunteer patrols have been monitoring recreation area parking lots and giving visitors “report cards” ranking the safety of their vehicle.
The goal is to alert people to take their valuables with them and not create an opportunity for crime.
The program began on July 20 because stolen property crimes increase during the summer, especially in recreation areas like beaches and parks.
“The goal of the program is to create a police/community collaboration that ultimately reduces the occurrences of vehicle crime,” said Police Chief Gary Morrison. “Effective policing takes teamwork and together we can reduce crime and ensure a safe and secure summer for everyone.”
The yellow report card is left on the windshield of vehicles and officers have two options to check:
“Congratulations! Thank you for removing all opportunities for crime!” or “Caution, the unattended property inside your vehicle has created an opportunity for crime.”
The pamphlet goes on to give security tips to keep the vehicle safe.
• When possible, park your vehicle where you can see it.
• Remove ALL property from unattended vehicles (remove the opportunity for crime). Plan ahead, if you cannot take property with you, leave it at home.
• Always lock your vehicle and take the keys.
• Don’t leave a hidden key on or in your vehicle.
• At home, park your vehicle in the garage; remove all personal property and lock your vehicle.
• If you cannot park in a garage, park as close to your house as possible and under a light. Remove all property and lock your vehicle.
• Be the eyes and ears of your area by calling the Police Department for suspicious activity or to report a crime 24/7 at (760) 931-2197.
• Call 9-1-1 in an emergency or for a crime in progress.
The program isn’t new, although Carlsbad has never taken part in it.
“This is not a new program but the program is new to Carlsbad. Other cities throughout the country have implemented similar report card type programs,” said Program Coordinator Cpl. Adam Young.
