(June 15, 2007) -- The LB Police Department will be holding a free "Shred-A-Thon" for LB residents on Saturday, June 16, allowing residents to safely rid themselves of accumulated personal records (assuming the resident has decided he/she doesn't need or want them) that could become dangerous if they fall into the wrong hands (old financial records, pre-approved credit card applications, etc.)

The event, held in conjunction with Iron Mountain Shredding, will take place June 16 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Ability First Community Center, 3770 E. Willow St. (corner of Willow St./Grand Avenue).

Up to five boxes per vehicle of personal documents will be shredded free of charge; additional boxes $5 each) The boxes can be dropped off using the "drive-thru" service that will be provided.

LBPD notes that identity theft is the fastest growing crime in the country, victimizing roughly nine million people per year with annual losses estimated at $50+ billion dollars; the Fed'l Trade Comm'n estimates that one in four Americans will become an identity theft victim in their lifetime..

"As a result of these staggering statistics, the Long Beach Police Department would like to emphasize the importance of destroying personal information, and provide the community with an opportunity to properly dispose of their personal financial records (credit card and bank statements, pre-approved credit card applications, receipts, etc.)."

LBPD adds that its Identity Theft detectives will also be on hand to provide information and answer questions, and Crime Prevention staff will be available with general crime prevention information.

LBPD "Shred-A-Thon"
Saturday June 16, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Ability First Community Center
3770 E. Willow St. (corner Willow St/Grand Ave.)
Up to five boxes per vehicle of personal documents free; additional boxes $5 each