Battle Ground Police offer prevention tips for drivers

Over the past few evenings, the Battle Ground Police Department (BGPD) has responded to several reports of vehicles being broken into.  These crimes have occurred in the residential neighborhoods of Creekside Heights (near NE 142nd Avenue and NE 17^th Street), and the Mill Creek Meadows (near NW 4^th Street and NW 15^th Avenue), and several other areas, with the cars typically being broken into between midnight and 5 a.m. 

Because these crimes are happening on opposite sides of town, investigators believe the suspect(s) is traveling by vehicle.

With the assistance of helpful neighbors, BGPD has obtained several surveillance photos of the suspect(s) believed to be involved.  It appears that the same individual is shown in each photo; however, due to image quality the police cannot rule out the possibility that more than one suspect is involved.

Suspect information

The suspect is described as a white male adult, approximately late 20s to late 30s, with a closely shaved head, and medium build.  He has been seen wearing a dark-colored top, a dark green or brown hooded jacket, blue jeans, a black beanie, and a black neck gaiter.  He was also wearing black high-top sneakers with white shoelaces.

If you have any information regarding this suspect or these incidents, please contact the Battle Ground Police Department at (360) 342-5200.  Callers may remain anonymous.

Preventing auto prowls and thefts

The Battle Ground Police Department continues to investigate these crimes, collect additional surveillance footage, and increase patrols in affected areas, and they ask for your help in reducing your risk of becoming a victim. 

Police emphasize that a quick check of your vehicle before bed, every night, can make a big difference.  Most vehicle prowls happen in driveways and neighborhoods, often when doors are left unlocked or valuables are visible.  Here’s how you can help reduce opportunities for thieves:

• Lock it up: Always lock your doors and close all windows, even when you are parked at home.
• Hide valuables: Don’t leave bags, electronics, or wallets visible. Take them inside or store them out of sight.
• Light it up: Keep your driveway and porch well-lit. Motion lights help deter prowlers.
• Check cameras: If you have home security or a doorbell cam, make sure it’s working properly.
• See something – Say something: Report suspicious activity right away by calling 911 (emergencies) or 3-1-1 (non-emergency) to report suspicious behavior.

A few simple habits can make your neighborhood less inviting to would-be thieves. Let’s work together to keep Battle Ground safe, one parked car at a time.

Information provided by the city of Battle Ground.