In 2010, the Haltom City Police Department responded to over 532 car burglaries. Vehicle burglaries are crimes of opportunity and if citizens can send a message to thieves that the opportunity is not present, those thieves will likely move on to another target. The program also serves to educate and remind the public to remove valuables from their cars.

The "Stop Thief" program is simple, consisting of a printed placard that is placed on the car's rearview mirror each time it is parked. The placard serves as a notice to potential thieves that there are no valuables in the car; it also serves as a reminder to vehicle owners to remove any valuables, including bags, purses, briefcases, money, laptops, radar detectors, etc. The placards are free and can be obtained at the Haltom City Law Enforcement Center, 5110 Broadway Ave. in Haltom City. The Police Department reminds the public, however, that placards should always be removed whenever the vehicle is in motion.

How to use the placard

When a vehicle owner reaches their destination, he/she will:

• Place “Stop Thief” Placard on rear view mirror of vehicle.
• Scan vehicle for any items of value, or any items that appear to have value.
• Remove these items from vehicle.
• Secure vehicle.
• When vehicle owner returns to vehicle, remove “Stop Thief” Placard and stow until the next time the vehicle is parked.