May 30, 2014
A mini crime wave hit Kingaroy streets on Wednesday night and Thursday morning with thefts from homes, cars and garages in various parts of town.
Thefts were reported from the Buckingham Street / Windsor Circle area, Daisy Court, Nobby Way, Adermann Drive and the Kingaroy Heights area.
Items stolen included wallets, mobile phones, electronic items including a UHF radio, clothing and mountain bikes.
The motor vehicles targeted were parked in the street, in driveways or in garages.
Officer-in-charge of Kingaroy Police, Senior Sergeant Duane Frank, said police were urging people to lock their vehicles, lock their houses – even while they were at home – and lock their garages.
He also reminded residents that leaving a vehicle unlocked usually voided any insurance claims.
“There is a small minority of young people who will walk the streets at night looking for opportunities to steal,” Snr Sgt Frank said.
They go from car to car, testing the door handles until they found one unlocked.
And unfortunately, residents often made it easier for them by leaving wallets and other valuables in the car, even keys in the ignition.
“Gone is the day when you can leave cars unlocked in Kingaroy,” Snr Sgt Frank said.
“It’s not a crime epidemic but why make it easier for them? People need to take individual responsibility for their property.”
Snr Sgt Frank said Scenes of Crime officers had attended the various break-ins and police investigations were continuing.
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Two Kingaroy youths, aged 15 and 16, have been charged with burglary and break-and-enter in relation to one of the recent incidents.
They will appear in Kingaroy Children’s Court on June 27.
