PASCO, Wash. – The Pasco Police Department is alerting the community about a significant rise in vehicle prowls, especially on the west side of town.

In most cases, victims have left their car doors unlocked. Additionally, many have left valuables such as wallets, purses and guns in their vehicles, Pasco Police said in a release .

Police emphasize the importance of locking vehicles and removing all valuables at night.

According to the department, “Most car prowls are a crime of opportunity. Oftentimes a criminal will move on if the car is locked.”

See Full Page