The holiday season is marked by an increase in automobile burglary and theft. The Automobile Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority receives frequent reports about increased criminal activity around all of the holiday fun and shopping that are common during the season.
The specialized auto theft investigators who combat motor vehicle crimes across Texas suggest that the increased holiday crowds represent an irresistible target for criminals. Help local law enforcement combat theft while having fun with your family and friends.
Take some simple precautions during the holiday season to protect your property, your vehicles, and—equally important—your goodies and gifts.
1. Hide your valuables from plain sight: This holiday season is already looking like it could be a cold one, so it may be wise to pack a blanket, which can also provide a great cover for gifts when you aren’t able to get home quickly with your purchases. Another tip that’s often overlooked: keep your cell phone cords and other device accessories out of sight. Burglars are willing to break a window or try a door when they see a cord because there’s a chance that a device will be in the vehicle.
2. Park in well-lighted areas or attended lots: Car thieves and burglars use the cover of night to avoid witnesses and detection. The
same goes for unattended parking lots. If you have to do your shopping after the sun goes down, be sure to park in a well-lighted area. Be aware of your surroundings. If you’re alone and it’s late, consider asking the store security to accompany you to your parked vehicle.
3. Don’t leave personal documents in your car: A car burglar may take your sensitive information to commit identity fraud. Instead of
keeping this in the glove compartment of your vehicle, keep it in your wallet or purse.
4. Never leave your car running while unattended, even if you’ll only be gone for a minute: Vehicles are commonly stolen at convenience stores, gas stations, ATMs, etc. Many vehicles are also stolen on cold mornings when they are left unattended to warm up.
Leaving your key in an unattended motor vehicle is a crime in Texas.
5. Lock your vehicle: While it’s the most obvious bit of advice, reports from specialized auto theft investigators indicate that far too many motorists are forgetting to lock their vehicles. In some areas, investigators report that around half of burglaries and thefts are directly attributed to unlocked vehicles.
The Northeast Texas Auto Theft Task Force, Paris Police Department, and the Automobile Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority wish you a safe Holiday Season!
