LAS CRUCES – Auto burglaries are down sharply in Las Cruces this year, but police say hundreds of vehicles are still being targeted and many of the crimes can be prevented by taking a few simple precautions.
The Las Cruces Police Department reports 321 auto burglaries from January through July 2026, compared with 525 during the same seven-month period in 2025. That represents a 39 percent decrease.
Despite the significant decline, police say Las Cruces remains on pace to record more than 500 auto burglaries by the end of the year.
Police say the overwhelming majority of vehicle burglaries are crimes of opportunity. Suspects often walk through neighborhoods or parking lots checking for unlocked vehicle doors or looking through windows for valuables that can be quickly stolen.
LCPD is reminding drivers to roll up their windows and lock their doors whenever leaving a vehicle unattended. Backpacks, luggage, shopping bags, electronics, tools and other valuables should be removed from vehicles or kept completely out of sight.
Police also warn motorists not to leave firearms, ammunition, cash, bank cards, important documents, spare keys, garage door openers or key fobs inside unattended vehicles.
Tools and other equipment carried in pickup beds or trailers should also be properly secured.
Motorists are encouraged to park in well-lit areas or garages when possible and consider using vehicle alarms, home security cameras or motion-activated smart doorbell systems that overlook driveways.
Police also caution drivers against leaving vehicles unlocked and running while making a quick stop or pumping gasoline.
Anyone who sees suspicious activity, including people or unfamiliar vehicles roaming residential neighborhoods late at night or during the early-morning hours, is encouraged to immediately contact Las Cruces police at (575) 526-0795.
By John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications News – John@bravomic.com
La X 96.7- Para Las Cruces, De Las Cruces