The Poulsbo Beat

Between the hours of 8 p.m. on Jan. 24 into the morning hours of Jan. 25, the Poulsbo Police Department has been responding to numerous reports of damage to motor vehicles, according to Deputy Chief Wendy Davis. The offenders appear to be using some type of BB or Pellet type gun to shoot out vehicle windows. At present there have been approximately 27 reports of vehicle damage in a variety of locations throughout the city. Davis added that the city of Bremerton received several similar calls on the same night. Poulsbo victims have not reported any thefts of property from their vehicles.

If citizens locate damage to their vehicles they are encouraged to call 911 to report the crime. Additionally, if anyone has suspect information they should call the Poulsbo Police Department during working hours at (360) 779-3113 or call 911.

Following are some recommendations to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of vehicle malicious mischief and prowls:

• When parking your vehicle or entering a parked vehicle, take the time to look around the area for anything suspicious.

• When parking your car always remove any valuables, keys, roll up the windows and lock the doors.

• If possible park your vehicle in closed or locked garage.

• If your vehicle is parked in a carport or in front of your home, leave the exterior lights on or use motion detector lighting.

• If your vehicle is parked on the street, choose a well-lit open space. Make sure bushes and shrubs are trimmed back so that they do not block the view of your vehicle.