The following is a synopsis of crimes reported from January 25, 2026 to January 31, 2026.
January 25, 2026
January 26, 2026
1000 block of Huntington Drive – On January 26, 2026 at 10:52 AM, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s 2000 Chevy Suburban. No arrest made. Surveillance video available. Temple DB to follow-up.
January 27, 2026
January 28, 2026
January 29, 2026
1400 block of Huntington Drive – On January 29, 2026 at 3 PM, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s 2011 Hyundai Sonata. No arrest made. Surveillance video available. Temple DB to follow-up.
- Grand Theft (Catalytic Converter)
1600 block of Third Street – On January 29, 2026 at 6 AM, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s catalytic converter from their 2014 Toyota Tacoma. No arrest made. Surveillance video available. Temple DB to follow-up.
1000 block of Highland Avenue – On January 29, 2026 at 2:22 PM, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s 2012 Kia Optima. No arrest made. Surveillance video available. Temple DB to follow-up. The stolen vehicle was recovered on January 31, 2026 in Arcadia.
January 30, 2026
January 31, 2026
CRIME PREVENTION TIPS – GRAND THEFT VEHICLE
For many of us, cars are the main way we get around, and they often play a crucial role in our daily lives. But what if your car vanished without a trace? Each year, over 850,000 drivers become victims of this expensive crime, and there has been a recent uptick in vehicle thefts in the City of Duarte.
Prevent vehicle theft by always locking doors, closing windows, and removing keys, even for short stops. Park in well-lit, high-traffic areas or secure garages, and never leave valuables visible. Enhance security with steering wheel locks, ignition kill switches, or GPS tracking devices (such as Apple AirTags) to deter thieves and aid recovery.
Key Prevention Strategies
- Secure Your Vehicle: Always lock doors and fully close windows.
- Remove Keys: Never leave keys in the ignition or key fobs in the car.
- Never Leave Running: Do not leave a vehicle running unattended, especially in cold weather.
- Park Smart: Choose well-lit, busy areas or garages. Park with wheels turned toward the curb to make towing difficult.
- Hide Valuables: Keep electronics, purses, and bags out of sight, ideally in the trunk.
Anti-Theft Devices
- Mechanical Locks: Use steering wheel locks, steering column collars, or brake locks to deter thieves.
- Electronic Immobilizers: Ensure the vehicle has an immobilizing system to prevent "hotwiring".
- Kill Switches: Install a smart key or hidden kill switch to cut power to the fuel pump or ignition.
- Tracking Systems: Utilize GPS trackers (e.g., LoJack) to help police recover the vehicle.
- Key Fob Protection: Store keyless entry fobs in a Faraday bag or signal-blocking metal box to prevent relay attacks.
Situational Awareness
- Avoid Hiding Spares: Never hide a spare key on or in the vehicle.
- Secure Personal Info: Do not leave vehicle registration or title documents in the glovebox.
VIN Etching
- Etch the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto windows and major parts to make the parts more difficult to sell.
