One of the most reported property crimes are those involving the theft of a purse or wallet. Think of “Supply and Demand”. Since almost everyone carries either a purse or wallet, the “Supply” is ample. The “Demand”, or desire, for easy access to valuables, equals the supply.
The Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) have received a few official complaints regarding purse snatching and wallets throughout the island in the past few months.
In an effort to prevent purse or wallet theft we have put together a few tips that can help to keep you and your belongings safe while out and about. Minimize your chances of becoming a victim to this senseless crime.
The following are suggestions offered to help reduce your chances of becoming a victim of this crime:
- Carry as little paper currency as possible.
- Don’t carry your keys, glasses, or important medications in your purse. The loss will prevent you from driving, entering your home, reading necessary documents, or taking important medication for your health.
- When shopping, never leave your purse unattended. Never leave it on a restaurant seat, in shopping carts, public rest room floors, dressing rooms, or under your seat in theaters.
- If your purse is stolen and someone telephones to request you respond and get your purse, DON’T! Let the police pick it up. It could be the thief looking to rob you of more valuables.
- When driving in your car, keep your doors locked and keep the purse on the floor behind your seat. You don’t need someone smashing your window and taking your purse from the front passenger seat.
- Never keep pin numbers, account numbers, or any safe combination numbers in your purse, If you do, the thief could benefit from this information.
- A purse snatcher can be anyone – a man, woman, or child. They are not the stereotypes television often portrays them to be.
- Keep the purse flap closed and secure when in a crowded area. It will keep “sticky fingers” out.
Remember YOUR LIFE IS THE MOST IMPORTANT THING!!! If a suspect attempts to take your property by force, let it go. If you are threatened, or the suspect displays a weapon give him/her what they wants. Property can be replaced. Your life cannot.
We the Sint Maarten Police Force can only do so much but it takes the community to help in preventing these crimes from taking place. Protect your belongings by taking the proper prevention steps. Prevention is always better then finding a cure.
