€1,800 and Other Items Stolen From Two Cars in Ludza Municipality
State Police are investigating two thefts from cars in Ludza Municipality in which a total of €1,800 and a mobile phone were stolen. A man born in 1986 is possibly linked to both cases.
The State Police are investigating two thefts from cars in Ludza Municipality in Latgale, eastern Latvia. In September and October, a total of €1,800 and other personal belongings were stolen. Police identified a man born in 1986 who may be connected to both offences.
Two separate cases
The Ziemeļlatgale precinct of the State Police Latgale Regional Department received the first report on 23 September. Between 19 and 20 September, a mobile phone (Samsung) and €1,300 in cash were stolen from an Audi parked in the yard of an apartment building in Pilda parish.
The second case occurred on 19 October in the town of Ludza. A wallet containing €500 was taken from the glove compartment of a VW. Police say the person got into the car easily because it was not locked.
Investigation
Investigators carried out operational search and procedural actions and identified the man born in 1986 as possibly linked to the offences. He has been given the status of a person against whom criminal proceedings have been initiated. Two criminal proceedings were opened under Section 175, Part 3 of the Criminal Law, which covers theft committed by entering a vehicle, apartment or other premises, or from a storage facility. The penalty may be up to five years' imprisonment, short-term imprisonment, probation supervision, community service, or a fine, with or without confiscation of property.
Police advice
The State Police note that thieves are often attracted by items left in vehicles, such as bags, shopping bags, wallets, work tools and smart devices, including computers and mobile phones. Owners are advised not to leave valuables inside, to use additional security measures and, where possible, to park in lit and guarded car parks.
Police remind that no person is considered guilty until guilt is proven in accordance with the procedure prescribed by law.
