With rise in snowblower thefts, two important steps help police get stolen items returned

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - – Since the snow began to fall, the South Lake Tahoe Police Department (SLTPD) has seen an increase in snowblower thefts around the community. SLTPD urges local residents to secure their snowblowers when not in use and to keep track of their blower's serial number, make, and model.

Storing inside the garage is always the best option, but if kept outside, make sure it is tethered and locked to your home to prevent easy theft.

In the event your snowblower is stolen, without knowing your serial number, police staff cannot prove someone is illegally in possession of the stolen property.

For example, owning a Honda 928 is very common in our community, but to prove it is stolen, SLTPD needs its individualized serial number to know it belongs to the victim and is in fact stolen. This would help us make an arrest and return the victim’s snowblower, explained SLTPD Detective Sgt. Scott Crivelli.

"Remember, serial numbers are on almost everything these days. Tracking your serial numbers is highly recommended to help police arrest theft suspects and return victim’s property, but we need your help," said Crivelli.