Sometimes, motor vehicle theft is not solely a property crime. In most cases, stolen cars are part of a bigger criminal goal. Established car theft rings would often use their stolen cars as a means for their various criminal activities. A most prominent example of this is their proclivity of running a “chop shop,” as professional thieves are known to resell certain car parts and expensive accessories to the black market.
Louisiana in numbers
Which is why it is hardly surprising that according to the 2010 Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Uniform Crime Report that nationwide, there were 737,142 motor vehicle thefts. In Louisiana, they shouldered 9,893 of the reported number, which was a 14.6% decrease from the previous year.
Cities that had a high percentage of motor theft cases:
- New Orleans – 2,410 motor vehicle thefts
- Shreveport – 526 motor vehicle thefts
- Lafayette – 290 motor vehicle thefts
Guard yourself from car theft
Car theft might not just solely be a property crime, but it doesn’t minimize the fact that it’s a crime that can happen to anyone. No matter where you live, you can easily be a victim of motor vehicle thieves. Give yourself a fighting chance, and employ a strict practice of basic car safety techniques.
Basic car safety stems from using common sense. Don’t forget to always take out your car keys from its ignition. Never leave your cars unlocked. Always check the inside of your car, and take out valuables that might be an easy target for car thieves.
Help spread awareness in your city
With this knowledge in hand, you can help keep your city safe by placing the copyright and trademark protected signs and designs on your property or in your area. You can also make custom sign donations to your local police department and they will disperse them to businesses and in parks and recreation areas. Hide Lock Take started as a proactive crime awareness program in Dallas. It has since become the most successful tool that travels around the country fighting crimes and making a difference. If you want to keep your city safe and educate the citizens let hidelocktake.com be your resource.