Corpus Christi Police Officers under the direction of Police Captain Tim Wilson were at the Sunrise Mall Saturday, May 12, to distribute crime prevention information in anticipation of school dismissal for the summer.

Captain Wilson is responsible for the Bravo District of the Corpus Christi Police Department which is the east portion of the city that includes Padre Island, Flour Bluff, and the area of town between Staples Street and the Oso Bay. Captain Wilson said a crime trend that has his focus are burglaries to residences and to vehicles.

Captain Wilson said 25% of all residential burglaries are through unlocked or open doors. This is often when a homeowner conducts yard work and leaves the garage door open. Captain Wilson suggests to lock windows and doors and keep the garage door closed.

Captain Wilson also recommends that valuables not be left in boats overnight which accounts for many thefts in the Bravo District. Another recommendation is that valuables not be left in a car. Captain Wilson said, “If you plan on leaving your purse in the trunk, take what you need from it and place it in the trunk before leaving home.”

Captain Wilson said Police have discovered thieves watch for valuables in the trunk. Some models of vehicles have an active trunk release when the key is not in the ignition. Everyone is encouraged to evaluate their vehicle for this function and beware that a thief can easily break into the passenger compartment of the car and have access to the trunk.

Captain Wilson identified the majority of the burglaries are committed overnight by juvenile males. The Corpus Christi Police will increase strict enforcement of the city ordinance (CC33-40) that prohibits juveniles age 16 and younger to be in a public place from 11:00pm to 6:00am unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian. Captain Wilson expressed the importance to observe the night-time curfew.

Captain Wilson promoted Crimereports.com which is a public site that provides a variety of information to include all reported crime in Corpus Christi. The information is updated daily and Captain Wilson said, “Stay informed and beat the criminals!”