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Are Car Thefts Linked to Sheriff's Cutbacks?

Neighbors wonder if there's a link

Written by KEYT Reporter

Story Created: Jun 29, 2011 at 4:28 PM PST

Story Updated: Jun 29, 2011 at 6:18 PM PST

Just as the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Department announced cutbacks in its staff due to budget issues, a rash of car thefts occurs in Carpinteria. About six were reported sometime between Monday night and Tuesday morning.

Some residents in the area of Linden Avenue and El Carro Lane believe there's a connection.

They are also upset that the city has cut its contract with the Sheriff's department by three positions.

Commander Darren Fotheringham says the Sheriff's department needs the public to help by locking car doors and securing their homes day and night. He says some of the thefts in Carpinteria were from unlocked vehicles.

The criminal activity in the small, quiet area, caught many residents off guard. "I was shocked. I was shocked, when I found out ," said resident Gene Moggia. He plans to keep in touch with his neighbors more closely, and watch for unusual behavior in their neighborhood.

Senior Reporter John Palminteri has our story.
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