HPD doesn't want you to be target of a 'Grinch' this holiday season

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- It may be a dramatization but it does show a real world problem.

The Houston Police Department created a video that shows just how easy it is for you to lose your stuff to a thief while you're doing your holiday shopping.

The surveillance video shows a green, fuzzy, Santa suit-clad thief breaking into and opening cars while someone pumped gas. He's probably the most well-known criminal of all time: The Grinch.

While the video prompted laughter, it highlighted some of the ways thieves target shoppers distracted by the holiday rush.

Houston Police Chief Art Acevedo joined robbery division officers to show the dramatization in order to drive home the point that bad things can happen if you're not prepared.

He said although the video was a dramatization, thefts like these happen every day in Houston.

Police say crimes like these spike during the holidays because thieves find a lot of easy targets. Officers even warned not to leave change in your cup holders in your car because criminals will break a car window just for that.

So, if you spot any Grinches this holiday season, you're urged to call the HPD.

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