St. Mary Parish Crime Prevention Tips

The St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office is reporting four home and vehicle burglaries in the Bayou Vista area, and they want citizens to be aware of some crime fighting advice.  In a press release, authorities report that in some of the cases the burglaries might have been prevented if the victims simply had decided to lock their doors.  They say several homes and vehicle doors were found to be unlocked.

The Sheriff's Office also wants citizens to remember that they should also be diligent about locking the windows of their homes and to not leave your car's windows rolled down as thieves will use it as a way to break into your car easily.

The St. Mary Parish Sheriff's office suggests these tips for deterring criminal activity:

1. Be diligent in setting alarm systems in home and vehicles.
2. Don’t leave valuables in sight.
3. Don’t hide keys inside or outside a home or vehicle.
4. Trim trees or shrubs that may offer criminals cover.
5. If leaving your home for an extended period of time ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your property.
6. Don’t advertise a trip away from home on social networks.
7. Don’t hesitate to call the SMPSO to report suspicious activity, 985-384-1622 or  337-828-1960.

Investigators says there are also a few things to keep in mind if you are the victim of a burglary at your home or office.  They say you should do these things to keep yourself safe after a crime and to "give authorities every opportunity to solve the case."  Here are the steps you should follow:

• If there appears to be forced entry, or if you suspect that you have been a victim of burglary, do not enter the home. The criminal or criminals may still be inside.
• Touch nothing. Although it may be difficult when you’re a victim of theft, leaving the site undisturbed offers investigators the best possible chance of solving the crime.
• Alert authorities immediately.

The St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office says they have increased their patrols in the Bayou Vista area due to the recent burglary activity.