The following is a synopsis of crimes reported for the week of April 12 - April 18, 2026.
April 12, 2026
April 13, 2026
April 14, 2026
- Grand Theft Auto:
- 1131 Block of Central Avenue (Carmax) – On April 14, 2026 at 1 PM, the suspect(s) stole the victim’s 2001 BMW X3 from the Carmax parking lot. No arrest made. Surveillance video available. Temple DB to follow-up.
April 15, 2026
April 16, 2026
- Grand Theft (Catalytic Converter):
- 1700 Block of 1st Street – On April 16. 2026 at 1 AM, the suspect(s) stole the catalytic converter from the victim’s 2008 Honda Element. No arrest made. No surveillance video available. Temple DB to follow-up.
April 17, 2026
April 18, 2026
CRIME TRENDS
In the United States, crime rates have declined significantly since their peak in the 1990s. Below are a few declining violent crimes and rising crime-of-opportunity trends.
Declining Violent Crime
- Homicides decreased by about 20% in 2025 compared with 2024, continuing a notable downward trend following the spikes observed in 2020 and 2021.
- Persistent Vehicle Theft: In contrast to the decline in other property crimes, motor vehicle thefts remained 25% higher in mid-2025 than in mid-2019.
- Rising Shoplifting: There was a 24% rise in shoplifting incidents during the first half of 2024, even as other types of larceny experienced overall reductions.
- Virtual Crimes: A marked increase in cybercrime, including ransomware and digital fraud, has been noted, affecting both individuals and businesses.
- Organized Retail Theft: There has been a rise in coordinated “smash-and-grab” events aimed at high-end retail stores and pharmacies.
Crimes of Opportunity
- Utility Imposters: Criminals posing as utility company employees, often wearing vests and masks, gain entry to residential homes. Some of these incidents have resulted in violent theft.
- AI-Enabled Fraud: The use of artificial intelligence in financial scams and phishing attempts is on the rise.
- “Kia Boyz” Trend Impact: Kia and Hyundai vehicles significantly affected the overall 2023-2024 motor vehicle theft numbers due to a social media theft trend.
City of Duarte Crime Trends
There has been a recent increase in the thefts of catalytic converters and vehicle tailgates within the City. Toyota models (Camry, Corolla, Prius) and Honda models (Civic, Accord) have become criminals’ preferred targets for catalytic converter thefts. In contrast, Toyota trucks (Tundra, Tacoma) are primarily targeted for vehicle tailgate thefts.
