Police Offer Safety Tips to Prevent Car Break-ins

Hawaiʻi Island police are advising the public of an increase in vehicle break-ins in the Kona area.

During December 2025, police responded to 12 reports of vehicles being unlawfully entered at parks, business areas, public parking lots and commercial zones, compared with five reports the previous month.

Five of the December incidents involved vehicles that were left unlocked.

Most reported cases involved unlocked vehicles or vehicles with valuables left in plain view, such as wallets, purses, electronics and packages. These crimes are typically opportunistic and can occur at any time of day in both residential neighborhoods and commercial areas.

The Hawaiʻi Police Department reminds residents to take the following precautions to reduce the risk of vehicle break-ins:

• Lock vehicles every time they are left unattended, even for a short period.
• Remove valuables or keep them out of sight before parking.
• Do not leave keys, key fobs or spare keys inside vehicles.
• Park in well-lit and highly visible areas whenever possible.
• Activate car alarms or anti-theft devices if equipped.
• Ensure windows and sunroofs are fully closed.
• Report suspicious activity immediately to police.

“Preventing vehicle break-ins is a shared responsibility, and communication is key,” said Sergeant Wyattlane Nahale of the Kona Community Policing Section. “These simple steps can significantly reduce opportunities for theft and help keep our neighborhoods safe.”

For more crime prevention tips, please go to the Hawai‘i Police department website: https://www.hawaiipolice.gov/services/crime-prevention-and-safety-tips/.