LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — It’s spring break, which means more people could be heading to state parks, but the Little Rock Police Department said that could lead to more car break-ins.
“It is much more crowded. So, of course, it makes it a lot easier for them to break into vehicles,” said Jonathan Tolentino, public information officer for the Little Rock Police Department.
Officer Tolentino explained that, unfortunately, this has been an ongoing problem.
“In previous years it was, especially the holidays, things like that, people came in cars,” Tolentino said.
Signs reminding people not to leave valuables in their cars and other advice can be seen at several local parks in hopes of preventing the police from getting another call.
“Don’t take valuables, leaving them at home if you can, you know, don’t leave bags. Don’t leave wallets, backpacks, don’t leave anything in sight”, said Tolentino. “Try to carry the minimum of things with you or if you carry it like one of those small ones [bags] like a fanny pack or a small backpack.”
While these reminders may seem simple, Officer Tolentino said they are often forgotten.
“It depends on the consumers who go to the parks. They are the ones who ultimately have to put these practices into play,” he said.
Officer Tolentino also explained that while you may think that leaving car doors open without valuables is a way to prevent damage, it’s not.
“All it does is give to whoever does it. It let them know, hey, people are leaving their cars unlocked. That makes it easier for me to get in and out real quick,” Tolentino said.
If you are the victim of a hit and run, police said it’s important to find out what’s missing and call them right away so they can file a report.
