Santa Barbara police are warning people about an increase in thefts from lockers at fitness centers in the area.
The Santa Barbara Police Department says in some instances, people left their lockers without securing them. However, in other instances, the thief was able to break into a combination-style lock. Police say these types of locks are less secure than regular locks with a key. The thief is able to open the combination lock without damaging it, and it’s also not obvious they’ve broken in.
Police say credit cards were stolen from wallets and purses in the most recent thefts. The thief or thieves then used the stolen credit cards to buy items and gift cards. Officers say the wallets and purses were left behind, likely so it would take victims longer to realize their credit cards were stolen.
Officers say people should check their belongings thoroughly when they get back to their locker, and if anything was stolen, report it to the police department right away.
Police say people should be mindful of using combination locks in other scenarios as well, including storage units, carport storage areas, and outdoor sheds.