[SCF 2020-05 THEFTS from CARS]
THEFT OF VALUABLES FROM CARS IN LORTON
I spoke with one my contacts at the Franconia Police Department regarding a recent crime pattern in the Lorton area. Since January there have been a series of thefts from cars in the Lorton and Mason Neck area, some parked at local parks, particularly Meadowood, but in several residential areas as well. Many of these thefts have occurred during the day.
While the police have some information about multiple suspects, they have not been able to identify specific individuals and do not have enough information to make an arrest. It appears there is more than one individual or group committing these crimes.
There have been several break-ins at the bike trail parking lot, next to Gunston Elementary School, and at the Mustang Trailhead parking lot at the corner of Harley Road and Gunston Road. Additionally, there have been quite a few car break-ins in some of the local residential communities; including cars parked on the street and even in driveways.
In the park parking lots, it seems the thieves may be sitting in a car watching people arrive; move their valuables into their trunk; and then head off into the park. The thieves then break into the car (including breaking a window if the car is locked); take valuables (cash, credit cards, etc.); and depart. If the theft involves credit cards, they seem to head directly to a big box store to charge items before the theft is discovered.
The Police need our help; they have increased patrols in the area but recommend park goers pay particular attention to anything that appears out of the ordinary (someone watching you in the parking lot). Given the pattern, it is recommended that valuables be left at home or taken with you.
If you have been a victim of such a crime, even if nothing was taken, please notify the Fairfax County Police immediately. Any information that may lead to establishing who is committing these crimes, including when and where incidents occur, may be helpful.
If something seems suspicious or out of the ordinary, you should write down license plates #’s of vehicles, location and time of day; and, of course, lock your car. Information can be shared with the police non-emergency number 703-691-2131 (or 911 if an emergency). Additionally, suspicious activities can be reported to the Franconia Police Station: FCPDFranconiaCPO@fairfaxcounty.gov
Please be safe.
Jonathan Kiell
Harley Road
