Thieves targeting cars parked near popular Santa Barbara hiking trail

Santa Barbara Police are warning residents about several vehicle break-ins in parking areas by the Jesusita Trail and bird refuge.

The burglaries occurred on Sunday, December 11, during the day.

Thieves know that people in that area leave their cars unattended for periods of time which is enough for them to smash the car windows and grab what they want. Items like wallets, purses, backpacks, cell phones, and other small electronic devices are often stolen.

Reporter Vicky Nguyen talked to a hiker about how he keeps himself and his car safe.

“Just take it all with me. Take your keys, wallet and cell phone. That way you can withstand any break-ins. If someone does break in, they’re not going to find anything,” said Bob Warner, a hiker from Santa Barbara.

Santa Barbara Police are reminding residents to lock their vehicles and to avoid storing valuables in them. Suspicious people or activity at these locations should be reported to the police.