NEWBERG, Ore. — Newberg police have reported a noticeable increase in vehicle break-ins across the city since early June, prompting reminders from law enforcement about prevention and property safety.
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“Since the month of June, there has been a significant rise in vehicle break-ins,” said Newberg-Dundee Police Captain Ryan Simmons. “Most of these are from unlocked car doors. People who are car prowling will check door handles at night, and any vehicles with unlocked doors will likely be rummaged through.”
Simmons said residents often discover the signs the next morning: a dome light left on, glove box open, or items scattered throughout the vehicle. Smashed windows, he said, are less common and usually only happen when valuables are left clearly visible.
The spike in activity coincided with the arrest of 36-year-old Travis Douglas Mottram on June 19, who was taken into custody for vehicle break-ins but released later the same day. According to police, his release followed state guidelines outlined in Senate Bill 48.
Under Oregon’s judicial release guidelines, many non-violent offenses—such as car prowling—fall under “release on recognizance,” meaning the person is released without bail unless the crime meets stricter criteria like violence, domestic abuse, or certain drug charges.
To help deter prowlers, police recommend keeping vehicles locked, removing or hiding valuables, and leaving porch or driveway lights on at night. Motion-activated security cameras that alert homeowners can also help, though Simmons noted they are more useful for identifying suspects than preventing incidents.
“Lighting and locked doors are the best defense,” Simmons said.
