City of Austin

The Austin Police Department (APD), in collaboration with the District Attorney’s Office, the County Attorney’s Office, and the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), is pleased to announce a coordinated initiative aimed at addressing vehicle burglaries and related property crimes occurring in our city’s parks.

Austin’s parks represent some of our community’s most cherished assets—vibrant spaces where families, friends, and neighbors gather to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. To preserve the sense of safe and enjoyment of these public areas, this partnership is dedicated to deterring vehicle burglaries, thereby ensuring that residents and visitors can continue to relish these public spaces without the threat of theft.

This initiative represents a united effort and a shared commitment to enhancing community safety. Our strategy will employ coordinated enforcement, prosecution, and prevention efforts to address these concerns effectively. We believe that our parks should be safe and welcoming for all, and we are committed to maintain these spaces safe free from property crime.

Here some safety tips to help avoid becoming victims of vehicle burglaries:
 
1. Always Lock Your Doors: Ensure that your vehicle doors and windows are secure and locked, even if you are only leaving for a short period of time.
 
2. Hide Valuables: Keep any valuables out of sight, or better yet, take them with you. Items such as bags, electronics, and even loose change can attract unwanted attention.
 
3. Park in Well-Lit Areas: Whenever possible, park in well-lit, populated areas. Thieves are less likely to target vehicles in locations with high visibility and foot traffic.
 
4. Use Anti-Theft Devices: Consider investing in steering wheel locks, alarms, or GPS tracking devices to deter potential thieves.
 
5. Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings when parking or returning to your vehicle and report any suspicious activity.

For more information about APD Burglary Unit visit: Burglary Unit | AustinTexas.gov