Unlocked vehicles pose as easy burglary targets

Sheriff issues neighborhood crime alert

On Sept. 19, Sheriff Greg Champagne issued a crime alert via email to all citizens urging them to be wary of a rash of automobile break-ins that occurred on Destrehan’s Ormond Meadows Drive.

It is reported that the sheriff’s office received three separate calls from citizens who live in an apartment complex in the east bank area claiming that items, such as compact disc players and radar detectors, were taken from their unlocked vehicles.

According to the police reports, the crimes were committed on the night of Sept. 18, and representatives for the sheriff’s office say that they are following up on a possible suspect.

Before the sheriff released the crime alert, an Ormond Meadows Drive resident reported to police that they witnessed a man trying to steal a leaf blower from a garage, but the supposed suspect fled before confrontation.

Authorities are looking for a white male described as wearing a blue shirt and jeans on the day the incidents occurred. It is also reported that the man may frequently ride a bike and live on Carolyn Drive in Destrehan.

“Residents in this area should be vigilant and call 911 if they see anything suspicious,” urged Champagne. “Also, everyone should lock their vehicles and remove any valuable when retiring for the night.”

The sheriff is asking all citizens to pass along this information to anyone living in the Destrehan areas, and wants all residents with any information regarding the auto break-ins to contact the sheriff’s office immediately at 783-6237.