Thieves go for the glove box

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - You're required by law to have them if you're pulled over or get into a crash, that's why just about everyone keeps their registration and insurance cards in their cars.

Now, a lot of Albuquerque meth addicts are going for those documents to help feed their habits.

Hocking a stolen or CDs can mean quick cash, but not a lot of cash in most cases. Getting your insurance and registration can mean a lot more money in a thief’s pocket.

“They can steal your identity by taking the registration and insurance out of your glove box,” Steve Sink, a crime prevention worker with Albuquerque Police, said. “Two things that are mandatory by state statute that you have to have in your vehicle.”

Sink says auto burglaries have been on the rise in the past year, and if thieves get their hands on those two pieces of paper, it can go a long way.

“They can open up different accounts, they can show they live in a certain location, they can prove residency,” said Sink.

Opening an account means instant money, money Sink says goes right towards their addiction.

“Directly related to methamphetamine and crack cocaine use,” he said. “If they can steal your identity and use that to supplement their addiction that's going to last them a lot longer than just stealing something and trying to go sell it.”

Sink suggests keeping your insurance card in your wallet, and always locking your glove box. Thieves will probably still be able to get into it, but it may slow them down enough for someone to see them.

Police said thieves don't usually have to break a window to get into a car, because people often leave their windows down or their doors unlocked.