HPD, Other Agencies Put The Brakes on Auto Theft

October 20, 2009 - At a news briefing today, Houston Police Chief Harold Hurtt, Harris County Sheriff Adrian Garcia, representatives from the Pasadena Police Department, and other public and private sector agencies announced a joint initiative to reduce auto theft in the Houston area. Photos of the event are attached to this news release.

Burglary of a motor vehicle (BMV) is an easy crime to commit and it is also just as easy to prevent. Citizens are reminded to keep valuables hidden from view and lock their vehicles. At least half of all auto thefts are a result of vehicles left unlocked.

To increase awareness of auto theft prevention, Houston police officers will patrol shopping centers and business parking lots and place BMV report cards on windshields to alert citizens of potential risks.

Chief Hurtt said burglary of motor vehicles is the driver of crime in the state of Texas. “If you see something, say something,” said Chief Hurtt. “Give us a call. That’s the only way citizens can help us do a better job of protecting them and their property,” he added.

AAA of Texas joined HPD in the announcement and reminded the public that using auto theft prevention methods like etching the vehicle’s identification number on windshields can also help citizens from becoming a target. AAA Texas/New Mexico Corporate Communications Manager Dan Ronan said, “VIN etching can make a vehicle far less desirable and much more difficult to be disassembled at chop shops, and we welcome the opportunity to serve the public by working with HPD to provide these free vehicle VIN etchings.”

HPD will be joined by AAA of Texas and other agencies to provide various services, including free VIN etching this Saturday (Oct. 24) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 12300 North Freeway (Greenspoint Mall).

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200 .