Austin Police say over 50% of pickpocketing activity takes place between the hours of 12 a.m. and 1 a.m. especially on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Police Department (APD) is warning the public about an increase in cell phone thefts from pickpockets in densely-populated parts of the downtown area.
Lt. Eric Cleveland with APD said officers are seeing theft reports several times a week, often involving crowded areas like 6th Street and the Warehouse District.
“On a normal weekend, we see 7,000 to 10,000 people downtown,” Cleveland said. “On Halloween, there were probably 25,000.”
He said the large crowds make it easier for thieves to target people, especially if someone is distracted. Cleveland said pickpockets sometimes work in pairs, with one person bumping into a victim while another removes a phone or wallet.
For females, he said items kept in an unzipped cross-body purse are most commonly targeted.
APD officials said reports of pickpocketing have increased each year for the past three years.
Over 50% of pickpocketing activity takes place between the hours of 12 a.m. and 1 a.m. – especially on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
In response, warning signs are being placed in high-traffic areas, including 6th and Trinity streets and the Warehouse District near 4th and Colorado streets. The signs will be moved nightly to areas experiencing the most activity.
Cleveland advised people to keep phones in front pockets, instead of a back pocket where it may be hard to feel someone removing it. He also suggests purchasing festival clasps or locks to keep bags closed and secure.
He also said to be careful putting in the password to your phone.
“Once your phone is unlocked, people will grab your phone, and now they have your unlocked phone. They can get into your Cash App, your Zelle, your Venmo, your bank account, and they can just start transferring money out,” Lt. Cleveland said.
“You’re out there to have fun,” said college student Christian Cuellar. “The last thing you’re thinking about is whether your wallet or phone is still there.”
However, he said the warning has him on higher alert now.
“Definitely be aware of my surroundings first and foremost. If I have to, like, pat my pockets every hour or so, I have to do that,” Cuellar said.
Police said they hope the signs and public awareness will help reduce the number of thefts during Austin’s busy nightlife hours.
