Increase in Slider Crime Trend
Across the country, police are reporting an increase in a new age crime called “Slider Crimes". A slider crime happens when a motorist gets out of their vehicle and leaves it unlocked. A "slider" thief will slide into the vehicle and either steal it or grab belongings from the car, then hop in a trail car to leave the scene. It can happen in a matter of moments, frequently at gas stations.
According to a 2017 report by the Atlanta Police department, 361 out of 466 gas stations in the Atlanta area – 78 percent - reported a slider crime.
A frequent scenario is when an individual pulls into a gas pump lane at a gas station or convenience store. The trail vehicle pulls into an adjacent lane. After you step out of your vehicle to begin pumping gas, or walk into the store, the thief opens the opposite side door and grabs your belongings. By the time you are finished, they are long gone.
Slider thieves typically target people traveling alone. They generally steal easy to grab items such as purses, wallets, cell phones, laptops or anything that can be resold or pawned.
Convenience stores and gas stations are the most common targets for slider thieves – but these crimes can happen anywhere. For example, if a shopper loads their groceries into their car, leaves the doors unlocks and walks to the cart drop-off center. That is prime opportunity for a slider to quickly reach into a door on the opposite side.
How can you protect yourself from a Slider Crime?
- Do not leave valuables in plain view. Placed them in a locked glove compartment, console, under your seats, or in the trunk.
- Lock your doors. Even if you walk away from your car for a second, that’s all it takes for an experienced slider
- Take your keys. Whenever you leave your vehicle unattended, lock the doors and keep your keys on you at all times.
- Stay alert. Be aware of your surroundings.
Slider
crimes only take moments to occur, and thieves are experienced at not getting
caught. Take these easy steps to prevent yourself from becoming a victim.
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