Since August 1st, 2015 the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office has received almost 100 reports of vehicle trespasses and 24 vehicle thefts. The areas of Highlands Ranch and Parker have seen the highest increase of these incidents. Majority of these crimes are occurring overnight and in the early morning hours. In most of these cases, vehicle doors are being left unlocked, garage doors are left open, and keys left inside the vehicles.
Small easy to carry objects are the main items taken. In some cases the remote for the garage door opener is stolen. If you are a victim and your remote is stolen, immediately have the code for your garage door opener changed.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office believes multiple persons are responsible for these offenses. Detectives were able to identify one suspect, Marcus Hicks.
A warrant for Hicks’ arrest has been issued for identity theft, 1st degree criminal trespass, criminal possession of financial device, and violation of restraining order.
Detectives are currently working on other suspect leads and ask, If you hear something, say something. Please notify the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office immediately of any suspicious activity at 303-660-7500 or dial 911 in an emergency.
If you have any information on these crimes, you are asked to contact the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office Tip Line at, 303 660-7579.
Here are a few tips to help deter these types of crimes:
- Always close your windows and lock your doors.
- Do NOT keep your vehicle’s keys in the vehicle or garage
- Take the remote control for your garage door opener inside with you.
- Always remove or conceal all valuables. The best practice is to remove all valuables.
- Use an audible alarm or other disabling devices.
- Park in well-lighted areas where your vehicle can be seen. Vehicle parked in the driveway? Park the vehicle closest to exterior lights and keep them on all night.
- If parking in a garage, be sure to close your garage door and lock your car doors.
Talk with your neighbors. Ask them to report any suspicious persons or activities around your home to your local law enforcement agency or the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office. Good neighbors make safe neighborhoods.