Devonport Police have charged four youths with multiple offences relating to entering a number of motor vehicles in Devonport and stealing items from them.

The youths aged 17, 15, and 14 (x2) will appear before the Youth Justice Court at a later date on charges including burglary, stealing, attempted burglary, attempted motor vehicle stealing, unlawful use of a vehicle, unlawfully possess dangerous article in a public place.

The charges came as part of a police investigation after the youths were seen trying car door handles on multiple vehicles in the vicinity of Gunn, Tasman and Forbes Street in Devonport.

Police would like to speak to any victims of motor vehicle burglary or damage in the area that have not already spoken to police. In particular police would like to speak to the owners of a White Ford Ranger in Forbes Street and a Red Holden Astra and White Holden Commodore at the southern end of Gunn Street. Please contact Devonport CIB by phoning 131 444.

Detective Acting Inspector Martin Parker said “Thieves are opportunistic and by taking away the opportunity by locking vehicles, thieves can be deterred.”

“Thieves want a quick and easy entry and will usually move on quickly if they find closed windows and locked doors.”

Police would like to thank members of the public for reporting suspicious behaviour and would remind members of the public they can contact police at any time.

Police have a number of tips for vehicle owners to assist with crime prevention:

• Don’t leave valuables in sight. If your car looks empty thieves may not try to break in.
• Lock your car doors and make sure all windows are up. Make it hard for thieves to enter.
• Park your car in a driveway or well-lit area at night. Being easily seen may deter offenders.
• Install a security device such as an immobiliser, if your car is older than 10 years. Cars older than 10 years are easier to break into and easier to steal.