SAN DIEGO (KGTV) — A frustrated neighborhood in Sabre Springs is preparing to fight back amid a string of car break-ins.
Bill Powers owns a townhouse just off Poway Road where Sabre Springs meets Poway. A year ago, he says the reports on social media of car prowlers started to climb.
"Anger and frustration that it's happening right on my back doorstep," said Powers.
An idea was born from that frustration.
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"I think the use of a bait car would be really helpful," said Powers.
He recently proposed the idea online and almost immediately, someone already volunteered their old car.
Powers says the bait will be something like a used laptop, placed in plain view. He'll pitch in some of the cameras, including GoPro cameras, to be mounted on homes and windows.
"Our goal is to get decent footage of the act and share it with proper authorities," said Powers.
Powers is also looking for help.
"I have volunteers but definitely need more," said Powers.
He's hoping for neighbors willing to take a shift watching the car. Powers tells 10News the volunteers will be following an "Observe and Report" to police or deputies protocol.
Powers hopes to have the bait car up and running in the next few months. Anyone looking for information on the bait car plan should contact Powers at here.
In a statement, the Sheriff's Department says they haven't noticed a rash of car break-ins and in regards to a bait car, "We are concerned about the inherent risks involved. We would much rather have the public partner with the law enforcement agencies responsible for their neighborhood to develop effective and safe crime prevention techniques. Those residents who live in the City of Poway can contact the Poway Station and ask to speak to Crime Prevention."
10News reached out to San Diego Police for their reaction and are waiting to hear back.
