If drivers leave themselves vulnerable to theft, they are encouraged to change their behavior to avoid vehicle criminals. 

In addition, drivers should recognize that thieves want to strike in locations where we are most likely to leave belongings and be away from our vehicles for longer periods of time. Those places may include homes, malls, gyms, movie theaters, hotels, even places of worship. In other words, thieves are looking for the biggest financial payoff in the shortest amount of time and with the greatest of ease. 

Texas drivers can help law enforcement decrease vehicle crimes by practicing simple prevention methodologies. First, don’t aid thieves by leaving doors unlocked and keys inside. Since the beginning of the year, 50 percent of Burglary of Vehicle reports filed with the Eagle Pass Police Department have been of vehicles left unlocked. Once a vehicle is stolen, any number of additional offenses could take place. The vehicle may be used to commit another crime. It may be operated erratically and involved in an accident. It may even be dismantled so the parts can be sold to fund other crimes ranging from drug use to terrorism. 

Second, remove items from view inside your vehicle. Much like thefts involving the entire vehicle, drivers often unintentionally assist burglars by leaving belongings visible. The only thing between your belongings and the thief is a piece of glass that can very easily be broken. Items left behind can result in a number of additional offenses. Keys or garage door openers can provide thieves access to homes, where belongings, money, and personal information could be taken. If a pet or child is left unattended in a vehicle, they could become additional victims of a thief. Items such as purses, briefcases, bags, electronics, clothing, or accessories can be stolen, leading to financial ruin, identify theft or resale of items to other unknowing victims. 

Third, be aware. No device exists to stop carjackers, so a driver’s best defense is acknowledging surroundings. Watching situations around you can be the difference between becoming a victim and getting home safely.

VIN etching is the process of recording a vehicle’s identification number on all windows of the vehicle. This process is done as a deterrent for auto theft. The placing of the VIN on the window reduces the chances of the vehicle being stolen for the purpose of dismantling and selling it for parts. 

This event is free of charge and the whole community is encouraged to take advantage of this service which is offered by the Eagle Pass Police Department and the Texas Auto Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority.

In honor of “Watch Your Car Month,” the Eagle Pass Police Department’s Auto Theft Unit will be having a Vehicle Identification Number, or VIN, etching events at the following locations:

1. Tractor Supply Co. July 14, 2016    9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

2. Eagle Pass Police Department July 15, 2016 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.