Austin, Texas, December 4, 2025
The Austin Police Department has recovered over 100 iPhones stolen from revelers during Halloween weekend on 6th Street. The thefts were part of an organized pickpocketing scheme. APD’s Downtown Area Rapid Response Team led the investigation, and they are working to return the stolen phones to their owners. No arrests have been made yet, and the department has issued safety tips to prevent future incidents.
Austin Police Recover Over 100 Stolen iPhones from 6th Street Pickpocketing
Austin, Texas – The Austin Police Department (APD) has successfully recovered more than 100 iPhones stolen from partygoers during the Halloween weekend on the city’s historic 6th Street. The thefts were part of an organized pickpocketing operation targeting crowded areas.
Details of the Recovery
APD’s Downtown Area Rapid Response Team (DARRT) initiated an investigation into the thefts, leading to the recovery of the stolen devices. The department is now working to reunite the phones with their rightful owners. As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the stolen phones.
Safety Measures and Public Awareness
In response to the increase in cell phone thefts, especially during peak crowd times, APD has released safety tips to help prevent pickpocketing incidents. Recommendations include:
- Keep phones, wallets, and other valuables in front pockets.
- Avoid carrying items in cross-body purses.
- Use festival purse latches or locks to secure bags.
- Keep screen lock passwords separate from other passwords.
- Store credit cards and identification separately from phone cases.
Additionally, APD has placed visible signs in high-density pedestrian areas to remind the public to secure their valuables. Data indicates that pickpocketing activity is most frequent between 12 a.m. and 1 a.m., particularly on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Background on the Austin Police Department
The Austin Police Department is the principal law enforcement agency serving Austin, Texas. As of fiscal year 2022, the agency had an annual budget of $443.1 million and employed approximately 2,484 personnel, including about 1,809 officers. The department is committed to enhancing public safety and community engagement through proactive measures and public education initiatives.
Key Features of the Austin Police Department’s Recent Actions
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Recovery of Stolen iPhones | Over 100 iPhones stolen during Halloween weekend on 6th Street were recovered by APD. |
| Safety Tips Released | APD provided safety tips to prevent pickpocketing, including securing valuables and being aware of peak theft times. |
| Public Awareness Campaign | Visible signs were placed in high-density pedestrian areas to remind the public to secure their valuables. |
| Background Information | APD is the principal law enforcement agency in Austin, Texas, committed to enhancing public safety and community engagement. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many iPhones were recovered by the Austin Police Department?
The Austin Police Department recovered more than 100 iPhones stolen from partygoers during the Halloween weekend on 6th Street.
What safety tips has APD provided to prevent pickpocketing?
APD recommends keeping valuables in front pockets, avoiding cross-body purses, using purse latches or locks, keeping screen lock passwords separate from other passwords, and storing credit cards and identification separately from phone cases.
Has APD made any arrests related to the stolen iPhones?
As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the stolen iPhones.
What are the peak times for pickpocketing activity in Austin?
Pickpocketing activity is most frequent between 12 a.m. and 1 a.m., particularly on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
How can I report a stolen phone in Austin?
If you fall victim to this crime, please file a report as soon as possible by calling 3-1-1 or creating an online report at www.ireportaustin.com.
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