Auto Thefts Increase In Summertime

Auto thefts are on the rise across the state, and statistics show summertime is when more vehicles are burglarized and stolen. Unfortunately here in Lubbock, it seems we could be on trend.

July and August are typically the busiest times of the year for auto theft and burglary in Texas. So, here in Lubbock, it's 'Watch your car month.' It's an attempt to help protect folks before theft happens as summer wears on.

Last year, Lubbock had 45 auto thefts just in July, that was up from 35 the year before. And the numbers are still coming in for 2009, but from January to April, 186 total. Now, we're a bit different from the rest of the state, our busiest month is usually November. But, the statistics and condtions show, summertime makes it easy for thieves.

Officials with the South Plains Auto Theft Task Force tell us more than 50-percent of auto theft and burglaries happen because of people leaving their keys in the car. And that seems to happen more in summertime months. So, July being 'Watch your car Month', Law enforcement hopes we can cut back on occurences.

Captain Greg Stevens, LPD: "There's no way to know what 2009's going to hold. You know, july could be the highest month for 2009.

Kat Anderson, South Plains Auto Theft Task Force: "July's just, everybody's just, they're more casual. And they just aren't paying attention and our car thieves know that."

So, how can you protect your car? Of course, never leaves your keys inside, and make sure the doors are always locked. Also, don't leave behind personal belongings, that just makes your car a target for what's inside.