It’s called “sliding” and its growing in Houston. Police say it is an easy crime of opportunity that requires no tools and no confrontation and relies on our distraction. The theft happens in just seconds and usually goes unnoticed until the thief is long gone. The thief often arrives earlier and waits for the right victim. Or sometimes he pulls in as you get involved with the buttons on the pump. He “slides” below your sight, opens the door and grabs whatever is there – purse, phone, laptop, personal papers – whatever he can reach.
According to statistics, women are the victims more often because they typically leave their purse in the car and take out just the credit card they need for gas. And most people, men or women, typically don’t lock their car while filling their tank. Thieves tend to target neighborhoods that feel “safe”, where drivers let their guards down.
It’s an easy crime to prevent:
- Always remove your keys and lock your doors when standing outside of your car.
- Keep valuables out of site – under the seat or in the console.
- Don’t let your phone distract you. Pay attention to who is nearby.