Irving police have implemented a new program to let drivers know if their vehicle is a prime target for burglars. This will help to reduce motor vehicle burglaries and give residents more protection for their property. 
 
Patrol officers, Irving Citizens on Patrol (ICOP) members, and the youth-oriented Irving Police Explorers issue report cards to vehicles selected at random to let motorists know if they passed or failed the inspection.
 
“By involving almost every section of the department, we can constantly monitor crime trends and look for ways to combat them,” said Capt. Bob Jones. “We are focused on partnering with residents and business owners to prevent burglaries and arrest those who commit these crimes.”
 
Behaviors that can lead to a failed inspection include an unlocked vehicle, keys left in the vehicle, an open window or property in plain view. Last month, ICOP members distributed 359 report cards with 331 vehicles passing inspection and 28 failing.
 
Additional methods to further combat vehicle burglaries include Skywatch Trailers at target-rich environments and special surveillance operations conducted by undercover officers. Three decommissioned marked squad cars manned by ICOP members also actively patrol areas where burglaries regularly occur.
 
Police make business owners aware of the crime trends that affect them, their customers and guests. Officers have met with representatives of hotels and motels in the vicinity of the airport, and will soon meet with fitness centers and other businesses. Patrol officers provide apartment complexes, fitness centers, shopping centers and other businesses with fliers to distribute to customers. They also encourage business owners to mount metal signs in their parking lots that remind motorists to protect their property and belongings.
 
For more information, contact Sgt. John Mitchell at (972) 721-3520.