Over the past couple of weeks, numerous residents of Excelsior Springs have reported a concerning increase in car thefts, break-ins, and petty crimes. Within the last week, six cars have been broken into, with one truck and a motorcycle reported stolen. Bicycles have been stolen from yards and garages, sheds have been broken into, and there have been reports of thefts from homes and Airbnb properties.
Lieutenant Ryan Dowdy of the Excelsior Springs Police Department has confirmed that the recent crime wave is predominantly targeting unlocked vehicles, residences, and unsecured items. “Most of the time, these thieves aren’t smashing windows, but they’re looking for unlocked handles and valuable items inside a car.” Said Lt. Dowdy. He also pointed out that no specific part of Excelsior Springs is being singled out. The incidents span across various neighborhoods, from Cornerstone and Price Chopper areas all the way out into Ray County.
Security footage captured near Thompson and Spring Streets shows a woman looting an unlocked car in broad daylight as an ESPD officer unwittingly drives past. (video posted by Alex Konis in the Excelsior Citizen Facebook Group).
Kia vehicles have become prime targets for car thieves. The primary reason is a design flaw that makes them easier to steal than other brands. Kias manufactured between 2011 and 2021 lack engine immobilizers, a common security feature in modern vehicles. An engine immobilizer prevents a car from starting without the correct key. Without this feature, thieves can easily bypass the ignition system, using simple tools to start the car without a key.
To combat these thefts, Lt. Dowdy advises residents to take preventative measures. “One effective way to protect yourself is by parking another vehicle behind your car, making it difficult for the criminals to access it,” he suggested. Additionally, you should ensure all valuables are out of sight of windows, and locking car doors can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins or thefts.
Doorbell camera footage shows this brazen thief walking onto a well-lit porch on Elms Blvd at 4:30 AM to steal a girl’s bicycle.
Using alarm systems, security cameras, and motion sensor lights Can help prevent home and Air B&B invasions. Consider installing deadbolt locks and reinforced door frames, and use window locks or security bars on sheds and homes. Keeping your home’s exterior well-lit, especially entry points like doors and windows, will often scare away thieves.
The police department has been tracking and arresting the individuals responsible for these crimes, yet many citizens have expressed frustration over what they perceive as mild consequences. According to Lt. Dowdy, while the police are actively apprehending suspects, the court system often imposes minimal jail time and fines, leading to the swift release of these offenders.
Lt. Dowdy emphasized, “If you have any evidence, such as Ring camera footage or security videos of a break-in, please file a report with the police department.” Residents are strongly encouraged to report theft or damage, especially if they wish to pursue prosecution. Filing an initial report can significantly aid the police and also bring the perpetrators to justice when they are eventually apprehended.
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