Highland Park DPS is searching for the suspect(s) responsible for a recent string of car burglaries (Burglary of a Motor Vehicle - “BMV”). The suspect(s) are targeting unlocked cars during the overnight hours, most likely between the timeframe of midnight and 5:00 a.m. in the morning. In only one recent car burglary was there evidence of forced entry. The suspect(s) have burglarized vehicles legally parked on the street, the driveway, and entered open garage doors to access vehicles. The majority of the most recent BMV offenses have taken place in the northwest portion of town.
Unlocked cars are an easy target for thieves. The suspect(s) are known to rummage through the entire cabin of the vehicle in search of any items of value. Items stolen during these car burglaries include credit cards, wallets, driver’s license, briefcases, personal electronics, sporting equipment, tote bags, pocket knives, clothing, sunglasses, and loose change.
HPDPS is encouraging the community to take proactive steps to best protect their vehicles from burglary offenses: 1) Lock car doors; 2) remove items of value; 3) if items of value must be left inside the car, store them in the trunk or boot of the vehicle; 4) park in well-lit areas when possible; 5) when equipped, utilize the vehicle’s alarm system; and 6) secure garage doors when the area is unattended.
We encourage the reporting of suspicious activity to the department immediately. Examples of suspicious activity include an illuminated dome light in an unoccupied vehicle, the activation of a car alarm, dogs suddenly barking in the middle of the night, or someone peering into car windows. Other examples include an open glass hatch on an SUV, or a car door that is not fully closed. Some victims have reported finding their car doors slightly ajar after the offense.
The department’s non-emergency number is 214-521-5000. In an emergency, dial 9-1-1.