The Oxnard Police Department Property Crimes Unit is comprised of a dedicated group of detectives that strive to provide the very best service to the residents of Oxnard. The Property Crimes Unit investigates a variety of crimes including burglary, theft, fraud, arson and stolen vehicles. As part of its goal to reduce crime, the Property Crimes Unit prides itself in providing residents with proven safety tips on how to protect themselves and property.
Property crime is preventable. By following the crime prevention tips listed below you will greatly reduce your chances of becoming a victim:
- Lock your car and home.
- Remove valuables from your vehicle.
- Don’t leave anything you value in a visible or unsecured location.
- Don’t leave your vehicle unattended while it warms up.
- Place keys in secure locations.
- Shred all documents with account numbers or personal information.
- Don’t share any information with someone you don’t know (or can’t verify their identity).
- Consider joining or starting a Neighborhood Watch program.
- Consider a home security program.
To learn more about crime prevention programs, please contact Property Crimes Unit at (805) 385-7605.
Unit Responsibilities
Crime Prevention
The Oxnard Police Department has put together some tips to assist our community members in recognizing potentially dangerous situations. By taking a few simple precautions, you can reduce the risk to yourself and also discourage those who commit crime.
CRIME PREVENTION IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY
Personal
- DO stay alert and be aware of your surroundings;
- DO stay in well-lit areas;
- DO NOT carry large amounts of cash;
- DO NOT travel alone. There is safety in numbers.
Child
- Never open the door to a stranger;
- Never take anything from or talk to a stranger;
- Never give your name or address to a stranger;
- If a stranger tries to follow or grab you RUN AWAY AND SCREAM!
Vehicle
- DO lock vehicle windows and doors;
- DO park your vehicle in well-lit areas;
- DO NOT leave your keys in your car, on or off;
- DO NOT leave any valuable items in your car;
- DO NOT pick up strangers.
Home
- DO consider forming a Neighborhood watch. Neighbors working together in cooperation with police make one of the best crime fighting teams!
- DO consider alarm systems;
- DO have well-lit doors, windows and yards at night;
- DO NOT leave windows or doors open/unlocked if you are away;
- DO NOT enter your house if you see evidence of a burglary. Call 911 and wait elsewhere for police arrival.
If you encounter a burglar do not engage them! Get to a safe place and call the police immediately.
Reporting Crime
Spanish translators are available for Spanish speaking persons who call to report a crime. Call 911 or 805-385-7740 from a cell phone. Tell the dispatcher you speak Spanish and need a translator.
It’s okay to be anonymous. If you would like to remain anonymous, let the dispatcher know! To report crimes anonymously call 805-486-8362.
NUMBERS TO KNOW:
- Emergency 9-1-1
- Non-emergency 805-385-7740
- Narcotics Hotline 805-339-4045
- Gun and Gang Hotline 805-982-7043
For further information contact the Oxnard Police Department at (805) 385-7600.
Stolen Vehicle Investigations
YOU CAN PREVENT AUTO THEFT
The majority of vehicles are taken by amateur thieves and this can easily be prevented. Protect your vehicle against this type of crime with the following tips:
REMEMBER TO SECURE YOUR VEHICLE
- An unlocked car is an invitation to a thief. Lock your vehicle when leaving it and take the keys.
- Close all of the windows – thieves have tools they can use to open vehicles through the smallest of openings.
- Ensure that the windows and the vents are closed well.
- When parking your vehicle, take out your cell phones, stereos and other valuable items. Do not leave wrapped gifts or cameras on the seats. Place valuable items in the trunk or take them with you.
- Lock your vehicle even if you only make a brief stop at a gas station, store or mall.
PARK CAREFULLY
- When parking your vehicle in a parking lot, it is recommended to use one that is manned by a parking attendant or a security guard.
- If possible, park your car in a parking lot where you don’t have to leave the keys.
- Never put a label with your name and address on your key-ring. If your keys are lost or stolen, a thief will know your address. If you have to leave your keys with a valet, leave only the ignition key.
- At night, park in well-lit areas and where people congregate.
USE ANTI-THEFT DEVICES
- When you buy a car, check the manufacturer’s list of anti-theft options available for installation. Consider the purchase and installation of safety mechanisms, such as:
- Second ignition switch or “kill switch” to prevent the electrical current from reaching the battery,
- Car alarms,
- LoJack or
- A steering wheel lock (i.e. The Club).
- Do not leave your keys in your car while the vehicle is on or off. Your car can be taken easily if you’re not there to look after it.
- 25% of auto theft is attributed to vehicles being left on and left alone.
- A majority of cars stolen are from in front of the owner’s own home.
IDENTIFY YOUR PROPERTY
- Write down the VIN number of your vehicle (located on a metal plate on the dashboard of the newer cars) and put it in a safe place.
- Keep your registration in your wallet or purse, not in the car.