GPS systems are favorites among thieves

By Uriah A. Kiser

Published: October 10, 2008

Recent strings of car break-ins have residents paying more attention to their portable GPS systems.

Prince William police said four GPS systems were stolen from cars parked in the Lake Ridge area between 7:40 p.m. Oct. 2 and 8:45 a.m. Oct. 3.

In three of the reported thefts, someone broke the front passenger window of the car to steal the unit.

In the fourth case the car was left unlocked.

When combined, the total value of the stolen merchandise was nearly $2,000.

Though the crimes happened around the same time and near the same neighborhoods, police stopped short of saying the thefts may be connected.

"It can only be suggested. But without a witness, nothing can be proven," Prince William police spokeswoman Erika Hernandez said.

GPS systems sold locally are priced between $180 and $2,000, and have quickly become a common item over the last few years, replacing a traditional map.

A computer inside the device links to a satellite and guides motorists with turn-by-turn directions to their destina-tions.

The more expensive models can even work with cell phones, allowing for hands-free talking, according to electron-ics retailer Best Buy.

While many of the more expensive models can be purchased and professionally mounted inside a car's dashboard, the smaller units are the ones thieves are targeting.

"I've had my car broken into many times a couple years ago and I will never leave my car unlocked again," said Lisa Bouzaidi of Lake Ridge.

Though her GPS unit was not stolen in the break-in, Bouzaidi said she now goes to great lengths to unplug her GPS unit and hide it out of plain view inside her car.

Brian Kinkade, a Springfield construction worker, said he has several thousands of dollars worth of tools in the back of his truck, as well as GPS system he has owned for many years.

In tough economic times Kinkade fears the small systems may become big targets for thieves.

"You can keep a lock on your things, but all a lock does is keep an honest man honest," said Kinkade.

The thefts took place in the 12800 block of Valleywood Drive, the 12600 block of Knightsbridge Drive, the 3000 block of Jenny Lane and the 13600 block of Rush Drive.

Police remind motorists to lock their cars at all times and take valuable items out of vehicles.

Staff writer Uriah A. Kiser can be reached at (703) 878-8065.