To Whom it May Concern:

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is aware of several recent car break-ins at the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve (BCER) public parking lots. It appears that these break-ins have been targeted, with the criminals watching where some visitors are hiding belongings in their cars. It is also believed that the criminals are blending in with everyday visitors, hiding in plain sight.

We know BCER is important to so many of you, and we are deeply sorry that it has not been a safe place for everyone. CDFW’s Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve Manager is constantly working to find ways to stop and prevent these crimes. CDFW is collaborating with the City of Huntington Beach Police Department to increase patrols in the area. The Bolsa Chica Reserve Watch volunteers have been informed of the increase in illegal activities and reminded to report all suspicious activity. CDFW also continues to improve signage and is working with the City of Huntington Beach and the BCER non-profit groups (Amigos de Bolsa Chica, Bolsa Chica Land Trust, and Bolsa Chica Conservancy, along with Sea and Sage Audubon Society) to finalize the installation of surveillance cameras. Additionally, we strongly rely on your assistance in preventing criminal activity at BCER. It will take the combined efforts of all groups and individuals to prevent car break-ins and to catch the criminals involved.

HOW TO PREVENT AND REPORT CRIME:

• Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Always lock your vehicle.
• Do not leave belongings (purse/wallet, computer, books, equipment, etc.) unattended, and if possible, leave them at home.
• If you need to hide any belongings, do so before you arrive at the parking lot.
• If you have a state beach pass, do not leave it in plain sight (such as hanging on your rearview mirror).
• Call 911 if you witness an active break-in.
• Contact HBPD at 714-960-8811 if you are a victim of a car break-in at BCER. If possible, remain on-site so the police department can collect any evidence.
• It is incredibly important to report all car break-ins to the police! When incidents go unreported, it is much harder for us to understand the extent of the issue and find appropriate solutions.
• If you have previously been the victim of a car break-in and have not reported it, you can still do so.

Thank you for your support!

Melissa Borde

Reserve Manager-Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

California Department of Fish and Wildlife