Clifton woman charged in gas station burglary; larcenies from autos at three locations

Commercial Burglary**ARREST**
On February 7, 2019 at 11:50 p.m., officers responded to 8536 Sudley Rd (Valero Gas Station) for a report of a burglary in progress. Responding officers arrived on scene and observed evidence of a burglary at the business, however the suspect had fled the scene in a gray Ford prior to police arrival.

A short time later officers located the suspect vehicle in the area of Wellington Rd/Lucasville Rd and initiated a traffic stop. The suspect, who was later identified as Bobbie Jo SWINDALL, was taken into custody without incident. SWINDALL was charged with Burglary, three counts of Larceny, and possession of burglarious tools and is currently being held without bond. SWINDALL is scheduled to appear in court on May 7, 2019.

Arrested:  Bobbie Jo SWINDALL, 46-year-old resident of Clifton, VA
Charges:  Burglary, Petit Larceny (x3), Possession of Burglarious Tools, held without bond and a court date is currently scheduled for May 7, 2019

Larcenies from Autos
On February 7, 2019, officers of the Manassas City Police Department responded to the 8400 block of Signal Hill Rd, the 10200 block of Cedar Ridge Dr, and the 9100 block of Prince William St for reports of thefts from vehicles. Each incident is believed to have occurred during the evening or overnight hours.  Cash, electronics, and tools were reported stolen. The investigations are ongoing.

Crime Prevention Tip:  Larcenies from vehicles, theft of motor vehicle parts, and vandalisms to auto are the most commonly reported property offenses in the City of Manassas. Valuables left in plain sight inside a vehicle offer a tempting reward for criminals, especially if gaining access could be as simple as opening an unlocked door. To avoid becoming a victim of larceny, residents are strongly urged to consider the following tips:

1. Lock all vehicle doors and windows. (It doesn’t hurt to double-check. Many victims thought they had left their vehicles locked before the theft took place. “Before you sleep, make sure it beeped!”)
2. Park your vehicle in a well-lit and/or in a populous location
3. Remove or conceal all valuables before arriving at your destination. Never underestimate the value of something to someone else. Even spare change can entice a thief to break in and steal other items once inside.
4. Report all suspicious activity to police by calling 703-257-8000.