NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH | We're excited to welcome two of our newest Neighborhood Watch Block Captains! If you live in the 400 block of Bungalow Drive or the 600 block of Sheldon Street and are interested in joining your local Neighborhood Watch group, please contact Crime Prevention Analyst Sirena Boskovich. 

We look forward to building strong, connected, and safer neighborhoods together!

Crime Prevention Analyst II
Sirena Boskovich | 310-524-2274 | sboskovich@elsegundo.org 

VEHICLE THEFT 
Vehicle theft was the highest trending property crime for the month of May, with sport utility vehicles and mid-size trucks being the most targeted. 

Make your vehicle a tough target by using the "Layered Approach" to vehicle protection. The more layers you add, the harder it is for thieves to drive off with your car.  

Layer 1: The common sense approach is the simplest and most cost-effective way to thwart would-be thieves. For example, always lock your car and remove valuables.

Layer 2: Use a viable or audible device which alerts thieves that your vehicle is protected.

Layer 3: Use a device which prevents thieves from bypassing your ignition and hot-wiring the vehicle. Some electronic devices have computer chips in ignition keys. Other devices inhibit the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine until a hidden switch or button is activated.

Layer 4: The use of an electronic tracking device which emits a signal to the police or monitoring station when the vehicle is stolen. Tracking devices are very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles.

Prevention Tip:
Never leave a spare key inside your vehicle, even if it's hidden. Thieves know where to look.  

HIDDEN CAMERAS | A GROWING THREAT
Hidden cameras are increasingly being used by criminals to monitor properties and determine when residents are home or away. These devices are often camouflaged with artificial turf and placed discreetly in shrubs. More recently, however, thieves have begun using real plants and foliage to better conceal the cameras from view.   

Tips to Help Protect Yourself and Your Property: 

• Illuminate Your Property: Keep your outdoor areas well-lit to deter unwanted surveillance.
• Regular Inspections: Ask a trusted gardener to routinely check your trees, bushes, and landscaping for hidden devices.  
• Surveillance: Ensure your home has a functioning video surveillance system and review footage regularly for suspicious activity.  
• If you're going on vacation, contact the El Segundo Police Department Dispatch Center at 310-524-2760 to request "Extra Patrol" for your home.