Melrose Police Investigate String of Car Break-Ins

Photo Credit: Melrose Police Dept.

The Melrose Police Department responded to a number of car break-ins last weekend and is reminding residents to always lock their vehicles and secure belongings to prevent theft this holiday season, Chief Michael L. Lyle announced Tuesday.

On Nov. 22, cars were broken into in the areas of Laurel and East Foster Streets, Slayton and Larchmont Roads and Mount Hood Terrace in the early hours of the morning. In all cases, the vehicles’ doors were left unlocked, police said. Generally, loose change was taken from the vehicles. In addition, a resident on Avon Street had a purse stolen from her unlocked car.

This string of break-ins is not the first to occur recently. Melrose has seen an uptick in vehicle break-ins over the past few weeks. In some instances, residents also left their keys in the vehicle and the thieves stole the cars.

With the holidays approaching, the police department reminds the community to always lock their vehicles and to never leave your belongings, especially those of value, in the car or in plain view. If need be, secure them in the trunk, out of sight, the department suggests.

Melrose Police have an increased presence throughout the community, but advise citizens to be proactive in protecting their belongings.

“Do not make yourself an easy target,” Chief Lyle said. “These were all random acts of opportunity theft. Please do not become a victim of this crime. We would hate to see anyone’s holiday spoiled because gifts and personal items were left in a vehicle and stolen.”

If the public sees anything out of the ordinary, they are encouraged to call the Melrose Police Department at 781-665-1212.