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EPD Sees More Citywide Break-Ins Involving Garages

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Eugene Police are warning of increased break-ins into people’s garages in recent weeks. While some burglars used tools, many got in through unlocked doors and entrances.

Among those who knows the problem all too well is South Hills resident Katie West.  Her family lost four bikes after a thief entered an unlocked man door behind their garage.

“It’s behind a fence, it’s difficult to get through. It just never really occurred to us that somebody would put in all that effort…and they did," West tells KLCC. 

"And so definitely lock your door. It’s safe but it’s not as safe as you think.”

Credit Brian Bull / KLCC
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KLCC
A retrieved bike may not be quite as recollected, just be forewarned.

West says she found one of her bikes - and another belonging to someone else – a couple days later while hiking.  She's hoping to find her other bikes, and return the other to its owner.  Services like Bike Index Eugene and city agencies like the EPD can help register and track bikes, including through social media accounts.

Police say to keep your garage secured, and keep the door opener remote on your person, not in the car. Homeowners can contact the EPD Community Engagement team for a free home security inspection.

Copyright 2020, KLCC.

Brian Bull is an assistant professor of journalism at the University of Oregon, and remains a contributor to the KLCC news department. He began working with KLCC in June 2016.   In his 27+ years as a public media journalist, he's worked at NPR, Twin Cities Public Television, South Dakota Public Broadcasting, Wisconsin Public Radio, and ideastream in Cleveland. His reporting has netted dozens of accolades, including four national Edward R. Murrow Awards (22 regional),  the Ohio Associated Press' Best Reporter Award, Best Radio Reporter from  the Native American Journalists Association, and the PRNDI/NEFE Award for Excellence in Consumer Finance Reporting.
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