Open Windows, Unlocked Doors Lead To Increase In Auto Burglaries

LAS CRUCES, N.M. – The Las Cruces Police Department has seen a rash of auto burglaries in the city’s south-central neighborhoods.

Since July 1, 2007, police have responded to more than 40 auto burglary reports in the neighborhoods bordered by University Ave. on the south, Lohman Ave. on the north, and between El Paseo Rd. and Triviz Dr.

In nearly all of the cases, the automobile owners reported that they had left their windows down or their doors unlocked.

The Las Cruces Police Departments wants to remind residents to take necessary precautions in securing their vehicles, such as:

1. Park vehicles in a garage or in a well-lighted area.

2. Roll up windows and lock doors.

3. Remove valuables or keep them out of sight.

4. Remove keys and garage door openers.

5. Use an audible vehicle alarm system.

6. Be a good neighbor and report suspicious activity in your neighborhood.

Anyone with information in solving the auto burglary cases is asked to call Las Cruces Crime Stoppers at 526-8000 or from outside the Las Cruces area at 1-800-897-2746.