Sheriff shares crime prevention tips for during the holidays

On Monday, Evangeline Parish Sheriff Eddie Soileau released a public service announcement sharing tips to prevent crime during the holiday season.
In the release he states, “As the crime rate rises and the Christmas holiday approaches, I’m asking all citizens in Evangeline Parish to be vigilant and report any and all suspicious activity. The Department has made arrangements to have more Patrol Deputies patrolling the roads during this holiday season. We are asking that each citizen take pre-cautionary measures in ensuring that their valuables and belongings are safe and secured.”
Sheriff Soileau goes on to say that “property crimes have risen with motor vehicles and allterrain vehicles,” and that “investigators are working diligently to resolve these crimes and recover the stolen property.”
According to the release, “during the last few weeks, investigators have been able to recover and return four ATV’s the rightful owners.”
In his release, the sheriff states that “in an effort to combat this problem, the EPSO encourages residents to employ some basic preventative measures,” such as the ones listed below.
• Lock vehicles and remove keys.
• Remove valuables from view.
• Park vehicles in the garage or driveway.
• Leave exterior lights on.
• Report any suspicious behavior to the Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office by calling (337) 363-2161.
In his closing, Sheriff Soileau reminds residents to also “buckle up, be safe and have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.”