April 10, 2013 - At a demonstration on Tuesday (April 9), officers with the Houston Police Department's Special Operations Division showed just how quickly thieves can break into a vehicle and steal items left in plain view every day.

Photos and a link to video of the demonstration are attached below.

In less than six seconds, the HPD plain clothes officer used a hammer to smash a rear window and steal two bags left on the back seat. It is a scenario seen all too often throughout the city. Through the end of March, more than 5,600 motor vehicles had been reported as being burglarized.

"We feel it is a crime that can be 100% preventable, if we can get citizens to help us," said HPD Senior Police Officer Jay Roberts. "They can do this by not leaving their personal belongs in their vehicles- items such as purses, wallets, laptops, GPS devices."

"Crooks sit and watch as you go into your workout facility or a mall," Officer Roberts explained. "Even though it only takes seconds, they know they're going to have a long period of time to break into your vehicle and steal your items."

Officer Roberts said the key message is to hide your valuables before you arrive at your destination so thieves can't see you have anything of value. Or better yet, he said, leave your valuable items at home.

For video of the demonstration, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxzFymzjRzQ&feature=youtu.be

For more crime prevention tips, visit the HPD website at www.houstonpolice.org and click on the "Get Informed" tab.