CHICO – One of state's largest municipal parks is seeing a series of vehicle burglaries, according to a Thursday report.

The burglaries in Chico's Bidwell Park – the third largest municipal park in the state – began June 22 and are continuing, according to Sgt. Rob Merrifield of the Chico Police Department.

Merrifield reported that over the past four weeks seven vehicle burglaries were reported.

In each case, the thieves broke windows and removed purses and small electronics such as iPods, he said.

The locations varied but most occurred in remote parking lots such as Browns Hole, Horseshoe Lake and the Easter Cross. Merrifield said at least one burglary took place at One Mile.

He warned that leaving valuables in vehicle when using the park is an invitation to theft. Thieves

target these parking lots because they know that park users frequently leave purses, electronics and wallets in the vehicle while they run or hike in the park.

Leaving the purse or wallet under the seat is no defense, Merrifield added.

Police also are reminding the public to report suspicious activity in the park. Merrifield said to be alert for people watching the parking lots and take note of any vehicles that appear to be casing the area, and to report thefts to authorities immediately.

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