Theft (a.k.a. larceny) simply defined, is taking something that belongs to someone else with the intention of keeping it. Theft doesn’t involve the use of force. Theft is the most commonly occurring crime in Minneapolis. In 2012 there were over 13,000 reported incidents of theft in the city. Of those thefts over 3600 were thefts of items from vehicles.
- Here are some tips on how to prevent theft:
- Do not leave valuables unattended in public places. This includes bicycles, laptops, purses, wallets, keys, and anything that may contain personal information.
- Be aware of your surroundings. If you are in a restaurant or other business, alert the manager to any suspicious behavior occurring.
- Call 911 to report any suspicious behavior.
- Record the make, model, and serial numbers of electronics, bicycles, and other items of value. This will help when making a police report, as well as for insurance purposes, if you decide to make a claim for the loss.
- Don’t carry excess cash or credit cards. Make sure you have a record of your credit card numbers. If they are stolen, report the loss immediately to the credit card company to reduce that chance that the thief will be able to use it before you cancel the card.
- Do not leave items in sight in your car. Take them in with you, lock them in your trunk before you arrive at your destination, or leave them at home. GPS electronics are hot items for thieves. Remove them from your vehicle and take the mounting hardware off the dash as well.
- Lock your bicycle to something stationary, even if you are only away from it for a few minutes.
For more Crime Prevention Information or Information about Block Clubs, contact Crime Prevention Specialist Karen Notsch at 612/673-2856 or karen.notsch@minneapolismn.gov
Comment