Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

Washoe County Sheriff’s Office sees increased response to vehicle burglary cases

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office has identified a recent increase in vehicle burglaries in the Hidden Valley area.  This crime pattern was discovered implementing a new proactive crime reduction policing model called Intelligence Led Policing.

On April 5, 2021 Sheriff Darin Balaam announced that Patrol Deputies would respond in-person to all burglary crimes with the express goal of reducing vehicle and residential burglary crimes by 15% within one year’s time.

Between April 5, 2021 – May 21, 2021 deputies have responded to 22 total vehicle burglary cases in unincorporated Washoe County. With partnership from community members actually reporting these crimes, the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office can canvass the areas hit by criminals, gather information, evidence, and increase patrols. Thanks, in part, to intelligence gathered in target neighborhoods – investigators want residents who live south of Pembroke Drive and north of Short Lane to be aware of their surroundings and take safety precautions.

Research shows more than half of property crimes, like vehicle burglaries, are not reported to law enforcement because victims “Don’t think anything will happen,” or “They won’t get their items back.” Another reason victims tend to not report past-tense burglaries is, oftentimes, banks or insurance companies replace the value of the loss.

Vehicle burglaries were identified as one of the top crimes in the region in the recent Washoe County Sheriff’s Office Community Survey. Results were published March 19, 2021.

Investigators remind residents of these vehicle burglary prevention tips:

• When you are enjoying our region’s beautiful outdoors, do not leave any item of value in your vehicle.
  • Leave your purse and wallet at home
  • Only take your I.D. and, if you need, a single credit card
  • If you have any weapons, secure them in your home
  • Do not leave your garage door opener in your vehicle
• Lock your vehicle
  • Unlocked vehicles continue to be primary targets for burglaries and theft
• If possible, park in your garage
• Install a home surveillance system

Victims of vehicle, residential and commercial burglaries should call the non-emergency dispatch line at (775) 785-WCSO. For burglaries in-progress, residents should call 911.

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

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