St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office investigating rash of car burglaries, asking residents to check their vehicles and urging them to lock up

The St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office is investigating a rash of car burglaries that occured over the past few nights in the Chalmette area, Sheriff James Pohlmann said.

The Sheriff’s Office is asking residents of Missouri Street, Corinne Drive, Palmisano Boulevard and Karen Drive and the nearby areas to check their vehicles and report any suspicious activity by calling Sgt. Robert Garofalo at (504) 278-7630 or (504) 271-2501.

A suspect has been identified in the case and an arrest warrant has been issued by detectives with the Criminal Investigations Bureau. The investigation is ongoing.

In all of the cases, Sheriff Pohlmann said, the victims’ vehicles were unlocked.

Sheriff Pohlmann urges residents to keep their vehicles locked at all times in an effort to deter criminals from committing a “crime of opportunity.”

“This is why it’s very important to make sure your vehicles are locked at all times,” Sheriff Pohlmann said. “Locking your vehicle and not leaving items of value in plain sight can greatly reduce your chances of being the victim of theft.”