With the holiday season just around the corner, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) Auto Theft Unit, in collaboration with the Texas Automobile Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority, are working to deter and reduce auto theft and burglaries by arming citizens with some simple prevention tips.

Auto thefts and burglaries are often crimes of opportunity. Thieves look for those who appear vulnerable and unaware of their surroundings as potential victims. Shopping and preparing for special occasions can make people distracted, which makes them candidates for victimization.

Auto thefts and burglaries result in higher insurance rates for all residents, and a stolen vehicle may also be used to commit future crimes. Vehicle thefts and burglaries most often occur in residential areas, mall parking lots, fitness and daycare centers and movie theatres.

To help prevent vehicle burglary or theft in your community, keep personal belongings out of view, lock your vehicle and always take the keys with you, even if you are going to be away from your vehicle for just a few moments. Most citizens are unaware that in the state of Texas, it is against the law to leave your keys in the ignition when leaving your vehicle. This can result in a fine, and your insurance company may refuse to pay the claim.

Personal safety is also very important during these busy holiday times. While shopping and loading and unloading items into your car, observe anything or anyone around you that appears strange or unusual. If your instincts tell you that there is impending danger, make sure that you avoid it at all costs.

Reports of auto thefts in the unincorporated area of Harris County for 2008 were down from 2007 by approximately 18 percent. Auto thefts for December 2008 alone were down 14 percent compared to the previous year.

The HCSO Auto Theft Unit offers auto theft and burglary prevention presentations to civic groups and businesses. Anyone interested in scheduling a presentation, call Dep. Sandy Johnson at 281-446-4399. 

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