Rash of auto larcenies reported at two West End YMCAs, parks

Henrico Police ask for public’s assistance in finding persons responsible for eight auto larcenies that occurred earlier in June.

June 27, 2014; 12:59 PM • by Trevor Dickerson

Henrico Police are on the lookout for suspects accused in a string of West End auto larcenies that occurred earlier this month at four separate locations–two YMCA locations and the same number of parks.

Eight incidents of larcenies from autos were reported in Western Henrico County between June 9th through 14th, during daylight hours. Victims reported various items stolen, to include pocketbooks, wallets, credit cards, checks and other personal items.

In all but one incident, the cars were locked and a window was smashed to gain entry, according to a Henrico Police statement.

The thefts occurred at the YMCA in the 11200 block of Nuckols Road (in the Twin Hickory community) and the 9200 block of Patterson Avenue, as well as Deep Run Park on Ridgefield Parkway and Otter Pond Park on Park Forest Lane (in the Wyndham development). Henrico Police spokesperson Lt. Linda Toney says detectives are concerned that suspects are watching victims as they exit vehicles without a purse.

In several of these cases, suspects attempted to use bank cards and/or pass checks belonging to the victims. Two possible suspect vehicles include a dark colored SUV and a dark colored sedan, both with out of state registrations and no front license plate.

“Henrico Police reminds everyone to lock your vehicle at all times and do not leave valuables inside a vehicle, even if it is locked,” Toney said. “Covering a purse or wallet on the floorboard of a vehicle or placing it in the trunk does not mean it is safe from theft.”

Police strongly suggest not to carry a checkbook, but rather leave it at home and only carry one or two checks if necessary.

If you are a victim of a larceny from your vehicle, Toney warns not to re-enter it before reporting the incident to police. She also advises making your bank aware of the theft immediately, in order to prevent credit and debit cards from being used to make fraudulant purchases.

Anyone with information regarding these offenses is asked to contact Henrico Police at (804) 501-5000 or Crime Stoppers at (804) 780-1000. Citizens can also text Crime Stoppers at 274637, using the key word “iTip” followed by your tip. Both Crime Stoppers methods are anonymous.