Crime Prevention Program Comes to Texas/Mexico Border

The Insurance Council of Texas (ICT) has joined with the Texas Automobile Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority and the Del Rio, Laredo and Brownville Police Departments in a crime prevention campaign aimed at preventing auto thefts and auto burglaries along the Texas/Mexico border. The program involves the creation and distribution of signs that read, “LOCK your car, TAKE your keys and HIDE your belongings.

“Auto thefts along the Texas/Mexico border is a huge problem and we welcome any crime prevention program that could help put a stop to this illegal activity,” said Charles Caldwell, interim director for the Texas Automobile Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority. “We know the program works by talking with police chiefs in cities where the program has already been implemented.

ICT initially started the crime prevention program in Austin on March 2, 2005, and has since begun similar programs in Round Rock, Garland, Mesquite, Frisco, Celina and Houston. Each city receives 100 of the red, white, black and yellow signs. The program was so successful in Austin that the city purchased and distributed another 3,000 LOCK, TAKE AND HIDE signs.

The LOCK, TAKE and HIDE signs will be placed in large public and private parking areas such as shopping malls, city parks, apartment complexes, restaurants and other areas where there is parking congestion.

Insurance Council of Texas spokesman Mark Hanna said police welcome any kind of deterrent for criminals as well as good advice for drivers. “The Insurance Council of Texas is honored to be a part of a program that urges motorists to protect their automobile and their belongings through this simple message,” said Hanna. “The signs should also serve as a reminder for everyone to be aware of their surroundings when they are leaving and entering their vehicle.”

Source: Insurance Council of Texas