February 18, 2010 -- In recent weeks, thieves have been breaking into cars throughout the Village of Freeport and neighboring communities and stealing anything they can find. The Freeport Police Department is actively investigating these crimes and urges motorists to take the following precautions to secure and protect their belongings:

• Lock your vehicle and activate the car alarm if your vehicle is equipped with one.

• Make every effort to park and secure your vehicle in a well-lit area.

• Remove items from your vehicle whenever it is left unattended. These items include, but are not limited to: wallets, pocketbooks, portable GPS units, gifts, clothing, loose change and electronic devices, such as iPods, laptop computers, satellite radios and cell phones. Remember to record serial numbers for all your valuables, so that if the items are stolen and recovered, they can be identified.

• Do not place valuables in the glove box or underneath the seat. Thieves will quickly find them. Remember to not leave anything on display that could tempt a thief.

"We also ask you to remain vigilant and always call 911 if you observe any suspicious persons or activity in your area," said Freeport Police Chief Michael Woodward.

For further information, please contact the Freeport Police Department Community Response Unit at 516-377-2438.