04/07/2026
Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department
North District Crime Watch
From the Desk of “Mr. G”
Hello, neighbors! It is a massive Monday here in Indianapolis. Tonight, the eyes of the nation are on Lucas Oil Stadium as we host the NCAA Men’s Basketball National Championship. The weather is cooperating nicely with temperatures in the mid-60s, making it a great evening to walk down to the Fan Fest or grab a bite on Georgia Street. It’s an exciting time to be in the Circle City, and the energy is truly something special.
With so much foot traffic and thousands of visitors parking in and around our district, we need to focus on Vehicle-Related Larceny. When the city is this busy, distracted drivers and/or passengers often make it easy for opportunistic thieves.
Legal Context: Indiana Code 35-43-4-2 (Theft) Under Indiana law, Theft occurs when a person "knowingly or intentionally exerts unauthorized control over property of another person, with intent to deprive the person of any part of its value or use." If someone reaches into your car to take a laptop or a bag, it is a Class A misdemeanor. This can be enhanced to a Level 6 felony if the value of the items is $750 or more.
Mr. G’s Safety Tips
• The "Empty Seat" Rule: Never leave a bag, box, or even a jacket visible on your seats. If a passerby sees a bag, they assume there is something valuable inside, leading to a broken window.
• Lock Verification: Don't just rely on the "beep" of your key fob. In crowded areas with high electronic interference, physically pull the door handle to confirm the lock engaged.
• Remove the Clues: Tuck away charging cables and GPS mounts. These small items tell a thief that there is likely a phone or expensive electronic device hidden in the glove box.
• Strategic Parking: When parking for large events, prioritize well-lit areas with high foot traffic. Thieves prefer shadowed side streets where they can work without being noticed.
Mr. G’s Final Notes Let’s enjoy this championship atmosphere and show our visitors that Indy is a world-class, safe city. Keep your valuables on you, look out for your neighbors, and let’s make it a night to remember for all the right reasons!
Stay safe, Indy.