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'Common Mistakes' Led to TV, GPS Thefts in Fayetteville

Since Jan. 1, Fayetteville police officers have taken reports for 39 stolen flat screen or plasma televisions taken during home break-ins and 44 portable GPS Navigation Systems stolen during motor vehicle break-ins.

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FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Since Jan. 1, Fayetteville police officers have taken reports for 39 stolen flat screen or plasma televisions taken during home break-ins and 44 portable GPS Navigation Systems stolen during motor vehicle break-ins.

“Common mistakes made (by) citizens include leaving the box for the flat screen and plasma televisions by the curb after purchasing the device,” police said in a news release Tuesday. “This is an advertisement to thieves that a new, expensive television is now in the home. Citizens should break down the box and place it in a dark trash bag before putting it by the curb for trash pick up.”

Citizens are also leaving their portable GPS systems visible in their car while it is unoccupied, police said.

“This is a very tempting and easy target for thieves. Drivers should remove the GPS system from the dash and take it in their home with them at night and conceal it in the car when it is not occupied during the day.”

Detectives encourage citizens to record the serial numbers of all electronic devices in their home and vehicles. Having the serial numbers allows detectives to track down stolen property and return it to the owner.

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