Rash Of Boat Thefts On The Delta

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY — Authorities are investigating a rash of boat thefts in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta in recent months, sheriff's officials said Friday.

Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office spokesman Jimmy Lee said more than a dozen boats have been stolen in the county in the past few months.

Authorities have made some arrests, but sheriff's officials didn't release any information about who was arrested and what charges the suspects are facing.

Some suspects are still at large, according to Lee's news release.

They are targeting boats for outboard engines and tower speakers. According to sheriff's officials, the boats many times are stolen, stripped, and then either abandoned, grounded or dumped.

Sometimes thieves set them on fire.

Sheriff's deputies are asking boat owners to use a chain to secure their vessels to a dock, use motion lights and cameras and remove valuables from their boats.

Anyone who witnesses suspicious behavior is asked to call 911. The sheriff's office marine services unit can be reached at (925) 427-8507.

(Get Patch real-time email alerts for the latest news from your California neighborhood. Also, download the free Patch iPhone app or free Patch Android app. Also, be sure to follow your local Patch on Facebook!) Also See:

• ‘Hamilton’ In San Francisco: Dates, Tickets To Hottest Show In US
• Apple Has Over 600 Job Openings In The Bay Area Right Now
• Please Don't Help My Kids

— Bay City News; Image via Shutterstock