by Nick Delgado

Guam - Senator Ray Tenorio introduced legislation that would place harsher punishment on thieves who break into vehicles. Bill 295 makes breaking glass to gain entry to an automobile a third-degree felony, and a second-degree felony if the victim is injured as a result of the break-in. The measure would also force violators to pay the vehicle's owner restitution for the damage he or she caused.

In a news release Tenorio states, "Unfortunately, this happens to many people on our island and the punishment does not fit the crime...I want to let would-be thieves know that our community and our government won't tolerate this crime, especially during the Christmas season."

However, Guam Police Department Spokesperson Officer Allan Guzman says the law already charges violators who break into vehicles with a third-degree felony. He says there needs to be a greater enforcement in prosecuting these criminals. Guzman adds that police respond to at least two vehicle break-ins per day.