‘They will break a window’: Lenexa Police warn of car break-ins at local parks
LENEXA, Kan. (KCTV) - As warmer weather draws more people to local parks, police are cautioning residents about an uptick in vehicle break-ins. Authorities say thieves are targeting unattended cars, often breaking windows to steal valuables left inside.
The Lenexa Police Department reported that a car parked at Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park was broken into on Monday evening at about 7 p.m. According to police, two suspects stole a wallet from the vehicle and quickly began using the victim’s credit cards at nearby stores.
Helen Sorenson, a frequent visitor to the park, said she was surprised to hear about the incident.
“I feel bad about that because I thought this was a pretty safe place,” Sorenson said.
Police stress that this sense of security is exactly what criminals exploit. Lenexa Police Public Information Officer Danny Chavez said thieves specifically target parks, community pools, and other public spaces where visitors often leave their belongings inside vehicles.
“It really doesn’t matter if your car is locked,” Chavez said. “They will break a window, and that’s what happened this week.”
Authorities advise residents to never leave purses, wallets, or bags inside their vehicles. If bringing a purse is necessary, police recommend locking it in the trunk before arriving at the park.
“Car break-ins unfortunately happen at any time—day or night, in private or public areas,” Chavez said. “These burglars are not deterred.”
Although police said these burglars stop at nothing to take what they want, people can take action to stop them in their tracks. Janice Kelble, another Lenexa resident, expressed this incident will cause her to be more vigilant.
“If it happens here, it’s going to happen anywhere,” Kelble said. “It could be in the grocery store parking lot, anywhere. You just have to be more alert now, which is a shame.”
Police warn that parks are not the only hotspots for these crimes. Gyms and daycare centers are also common targets for thieves looking for easy opportunities.
As the community enjoys the outdoors this spring, officials urge everyone to take precautions and remain aware of their surroundings to prevent falling victim to vehicle break-ins.
If you’ve been a victim or see suspicious behavior, call 911 immediately.
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