Check credit card statements, bank statements, and credit reports regularly; shred all papers with identifying information, don’t leave mail outside for pickup, be on the lookout for strangers in the neighborhood, and take computer and wi-fi security very seriously.
Glendale PD Detective Robert Zaun, Community Lead Officer Kelly Annis, and West Area Commander Susan Hayn presented the ID theft prevention tips above, and discussed recent crime trends in Northwest Glendale to a capacity crowd at Brand Library Auditorium last night.
On an average night in the area, there are 3 stolen cars, 4-5 cases of domestic violence, 2-3 DUIs, and of course the Glenoaks Blvd. speedway. These stats were recited in answer to a question on whether police patrols check for recycling theft. The point: residents themselves should be on the alert and call right away if they see anyone sifting through trash for papers, walking around the back of homes, or exhibiting other suspicious behavior.
All the officers stressed common sense measures. Most auto burglaries in the city occur when people leave valuables in plain sight, and homes with open windows and unlocked doors are easy targets.