Arkansas-side police warn of car break-ins

Several recently reported thefts from vehicles and outer areas of homes have led Texarkana, Ark., Police Department to remind area residents of steps they can take to keep from falling victim.

Cpl. Kristi Bennett, TAPD spokeswoman, said the department has seen an influx of property thefts, both from vehicles and from outside areas of homes, and warned that vehicle break-ins can take just a few minutes or less—especially when the car is left unlocked or valuables are left in plain view, she added.

“Criminals will often drive through parking lots or residential neighborhoods, looking for vehicles with open windows or unlocked doors,” Bennett said. “Vehicle prowlers watch for valuables left in the open, such as cellular phones, electronics, CDs, stereo equipment, purses or wallets.”

Bennett added that valuables left in vehicles should be concealed before arriving at a destination, but stressed that people should do this

“only if you must.” Police do not recommend the practice of leaving valuable items such as purses, wallets or expensive goods in vehicles at all.

“Be aware that vehicle break-ins commonly lead to other crimes such as fraud and identity theft, so limit the amount of personal information you keep inside your vehicle,” Bennett said.

TAPD also recommended recording serial numbers of valuables and keeping them in a safe place other than a vehicle.

Several recent thefts outside of homes have been reported, as well, according to Bennett.

“You can help prevent this by concealing all valuables around your home and securing (locking) garages or storage buildings on your property,” Bennett said. “Especially keep these items out of sight from the roadways.”

She reminded residents that yard gates should be locked, too.

TAPD also urged citizens to report any suspicious people or activity promptly by calling the department at 903798-3154 or Texarkana Area Crime Stoppers at 903-793STOP.