As ID Thefts Increase in Fenton Area, Here's How You Can Protect Yourself

The following information was reported by the St. Louis County Police Department, Fenton Precinct.

Fenton Police Officer Aaron Dilks reports: "We have seen a slight increase of Identity thefts in the area. You should pay close attention to all purchases on your credit cards. To ensure no fraudulent accounts have been opened in your name, you should take advantage of the once-a-year free credit report: www.annualcreditreport.com. For more information on preventing identity thefts, check out the St. Louis County online brochure."

The monthly crime report and statistical information for March 2013 showed that police officers serving the City of Fenton responded to 693 calls for service, handled 608 self-initiated assignments, and made 80 arrests during the month. Officers responded to and handled 265 radio/on-view assignments in the retail business areas. The activities in the retail business area resulted in 21 arrests. Officers assigned to the City of Fenton Precinct issued 284 traffic citations in March.

Incident reports:

A woman concealed make-up in her purse March 25 at Walmart, 653 Gravois Bluffs Blvd., then left the store without paying. She was issued a summons.

A juvenile suspect concealed clothing March 29 at Kohl's, 115 Gravois Bluffs Plaza, then left the store without paying. He was charged with stealing and released to his mother. 

Two suspects concealed batteries in their coat pockets March 30 at Shop n' Save, 45 Gravois Bluffs Plaza then left the store making without paying. Both were arrested.

Several unauthorized purchases were made at 625 New Smizer Mill road using someone else's checking account. An investigation is ongoing.

Someone broke out the window of a vehicle at Cracker Barrel, 1050 S. Hwy Drive. An unknown suspect broke out the victim’s vehicle window March 25 and stole their luggage. An investigation is ongoing.

Someone entered an unlocked vehicle March 26 at 1052 Cassens Industrial Court, and stole work tools. An investigation is ongoing.

Someone entered a woman's unlocked vehicle March 28 at Brown Mackey College, 2 Soccer Park Road and stole her purse.