Car Burglary & Theft

Car burglary

Car burglary is when someone enters a vehicle, with or without force, with the intention to steal contents from inside that vehicle. This is one of the most common property crimes in Lenexa.

Burglars will rarely force entry into a vehicle to look for valuables, but instead have already spotted items of value from the outside while peering in. The most common items we see targeted are purses (and contents), bags (laptop bags, book bags, brief cases), firearms and tools/equipment.

In our experience, if a burglar sees something of value, they will enter the vehicle to steal the item(s) whether or not the car is locked and alarmed. Similarly, if a car is locked and nothing of potential value can be seen on the inside, it is unlikely that a burglar will try to enter the vehicle.

Here is what you can do to help minimize your chances of a car burglary at home:

• If you can, park in the garage. If you cannot park in the garage, park in well-lit areas, taking advantage of porch lights, motion-activated lights or streetlights.
• Remove valuables and commonly targeted items listed above. If a bag looks like it could contain a laptop, tablet, wallet, or something else of value, it should be removed because it will tempt a burglar.
• Remove or hide garage door opener remotes.
• Ensure car doors are locked and windows are rolled up all the way.
• Set car alarm if equipped.

Car theft

Here are some basic steps to help lower your chances of getting your car stolen.

• If you can, park in the garage. If you cannot park in the garage, park in well-lit areas, taking advantage of porch lights, motion-activated lights or streetlights.
• Lock car doors and ensure windows are rolled all the way up.
• Set car alarm if equipped.
• Never leave keys inside the vehicle.
• Don’t leave your car running, unattended, unless using remote start and keys are not inside the vehicle. During cold-weather months, car thieves are known to troll neighborhoods and apartment complexes, particularly during the morning hours, looking for cars left warming up unattended.