SAN PEDRO - Los Angeles Police Department officials said a rise in vehicle thefts took place across San Pedro from mid-May through the middle of this month.

During that time, 43 vehicles were reported stolen, mostly from the central and northern sections of the community, officials said. The majority of those were Hondas and Toyotas.

In addition, 64 vehicle burglaries occurred in the community during that time, police officials said. Items stolen included laptop computers, cellphones, wallets, cash and purses.

Officials said simple preventive measures can be taken to protect vehicles, such as locking all doors, installing an alarm and using a steering wheel lock.

The Los Angeles Police Department asks residents to immediately report any suspicious activity in their neighborhood. Anyone with information about the incidents can contact the LAPD's Harbor Division at 310-726-7700. Tips also can be called into the Crimestoppers line at 800-222-TIPS.

Harbor Division officers are adding extra patrols to the areas most affected and seeking out parolees with histories of property crimes.