Police looking for seat thieves

Though the trend may be widespread, it could be temporary, Gomez said.

“These are trends, and trends continue for a little bit,” he said.

“It’s car seats this week, and next week it could be roof racks. Trends take their course and eventually die off. This is unique and specific, but I’m not surprised by it.

“Any time there is a commodity, there is a rise in thefts.”

In response to the surge in robberies, Burbank Police have stepped up their presence around shopping malls, such as the Burbank Town Center.

Two additional officers patrol the parking lot and surrounding area at the mall, Sgt. Thor Merich said.

GMC also made it harder for possible thieves as they have locked down many of their third rows on newer vehicles, Montes said.

While police continue to look for suspects, drivers can help to lessen the chance of their car being broken in to, Gomez said.

“Try not to park in isolated areas,” he said.

“Also, if you don’t need third-row seats in there, take it out. Lots of people buy big cars, and the third row is never used.”