Vehicle thefts increase 104% in Las Cruces

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico - Vehicle thefts in Las Cruces have more than doubled in comparison to last year, according to data released Tuesday by the police department.

• January 1st - May 15th, 2021: 186 car thefts
• January 1st - May 15th, 2020: 91 car thefts

According to this data, the the city saw a 104% increase in car thefts from 2020 to 2021.

Police also said that in 31% of thefts, the owner had either left their keys inside the car, lost their keys or had them stolen. In 8% of the thefts, the owner had left his or her vehicle running and unattended, according to the department.

Authorities remind the public to never leave their vehicles running while unattended, not to leave their kids or keys inside the vehicle and to always lock their cars.

Drivers are also urged to avoid leaving valuables, money, garage door openers or important documents in the vehicle. Make sure windows have a Vehicle Identification Number etched into the glass.

You can report a stolen vehicle by calling police at (575) 526-0795.