Parking Lot Theft on the Rise

May 18, 2022

If you leave your car unattended to go to the store, attend an athletic event, or attend a fitness class you’ll want to be especially aware of the current crime tactic sweeping America: car purse thieves. 

The Target & The Crime

In recent reports, vehicles are being broken into during group fitness classes at a variety of gyms that operate on a set schedule (think aerobics, HIIT, CrossFit, yoga studios, boot camp, etc.). Early morning classes are prime targets since it’s still dark out but these break-ins have happened at all times of day or night.

These are easy targets because burglars are assured that the gym parking lot will be free of witnesses during your group class hour. They break car windows (either by hand or using a window punch tool) and easily reach in and take wallets, purses, and anything else within reach in just minutes or even seconds. Gym goers then come out to find glass everywhere and personal belongings missing. 

What can you do if you are a gym owner or other similar business? 

Your surveillance cameras act as a deterrent and even having a business security system with the Per Mar Security stickers on your door can help. Depending on your unique situation, utilizing intermittent or even temporary security guards could send the right message to criminals in order to impede them. 

There’s also something to be said for word of mouth. Since a purse is not needed while at the gym (as opposed to the grocery store or mall), they are often left in the car while working out along with wallets, wedding rings, and other valuables. Simply warning your clientele to bring their valuables inside or keep them out of plain sight can help. 

You can also contact your local law enforcement, asking them to patrol your area more often. They are often willing to help when they get word of these types of crimes. In some areas, they’ve even been known to leave notes for people who left their valuables visible suggesting to either take them with or hide them. 

This is not the first time a national theft ring has targeted local businesses and it likely won’t be the last. We understand wanting to keep your clients and their belongings safe and we are here to help should you ever need us. Give us a call to talk it through!