The Benton Police Department (BNPD) received numerous vehicle Breaking or Entering calls in the Heritage Farms subdivision Wednesday evening and Thursday morning. After a brief search, officers took two juvenile suspects into custody. The investigation is ongoing and charges will be forthcoming.
BNPD Captain Kevin Russell said in some of these cases, the victims failed to lock their vehicle, though there were exceptions.
“Criminals are always looking for an easy target, and, unfortunately, not locking doors is an open invitation,” stated Russell. “Leaving valuables such as purses, guns, phones and computers in plain sight will also prompt thieves to gain entry by whatever means necessary. These are very key components in not being that easy target.”
Russell urges residents to lock their vehicles at all times, even in a closed garage. “There have been instances in the past where thieves gain entry to a garage via a garage door opener and if a vehicle or home is unlocked, they then have open access. Most garage doors have a lock feature on them that will render a garage door opener useless, so this is a great task to add to your routine if you haven’t done so already.”
BNPD asks that anyone with information about these incidents contact the department at 501-778-1171 or 501-315-TIPS. Anonymous tips may also be sent via text to CRIMES (274637) with the keyword BNPD in the body of the message, via the official Benton Police Department app available on iTunes and Google Play or at www.crimereports.com.