MHCC parking lot scene of six break-ins

Mt. Hood Community College had to deal with six vehicle break-ins that occurred last between Jan. 13 and Tuesday, Jan. 24.

“Four of those break-ins occurred weekdays in parking lots W and one in lot K between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.,” Gale Blessing, director of safety and security, wrote in an email to all staff Tuesday. The break-in on Tuesday occurred in parking lot A between 10:15 a.m. and 7:15 p.m. where the vehicle’s passenger side wing mirror was broken off.

Stolen items include iPods, CDs, a stereo, purses, sports gear and other valuables.

As of Thursday, MHCC Public Safety and local law enforcement were working to identify and capture suspects.

In addition, Blessing said MHCC needs the help of staff and students to prevent thefts by using common sense.

In the email, Blessing gave the following tips to reduce the risk of break-ins:

• Students should not leave any valuables, such as GPSs, laptops, MP3s, book bags, purses, and other items, in your vehicle, including the trunks of cars.

• Make sure to lock vehicles and close all windows.

• Students should report any missing items or property immediately. This includes suspicious activity on bankcards such as debit and credit. It can be reported to the non-emergency number for Public Safety office, 503-491-7310. In the case of an emergency, dial 503-491-7911.

The MHCC bookstore presents another practical option for protection. Anti-theft devices such as The Club, which locks the steering wheel of a car, are available at the bookstore at a discount.

Blessing also said it is also important not to approach suspects but to serve as a “good witness” and note their physical descriptions, clothing, actions, direction of travel and vehicle, if any.

“Student, employee and visitor safety is our number one concern,” Blessing said.

Advocate Staff