Tuesday Tip - Unattended Property

APD, like many other police agencies, receives reports from persons that lose or misplace personal items such as wallets and purses. These reports are usually for documentation only as there is little, if any, follow-up information. A common scenario is where a shopper sets down their purse or wallet on a counter, a chair or bench, and walks away, even if only for a moment. Upon their return, their valuables are gone. Other times, persons will simply forget a purse on a restaurant bench and by the time it is remembered, the purse is missing.


Don't become a victim! Watch out for your valuables and keep them with you at all times. Don't walk away from your shopping cart or the bench where you are sitting without your purse. Don't set your wallet or cell phone down on the counter and direct your attention elsewhere. Mistakes will happen. We all will forget an item from time to time, but do your best to not create a crime of opportunity. Thieves looks for easy targets and an unattended purse, wallet or cell phone is an inviting target.