Operation Key Fob is a grassroots initiative aimed at curbing the rise in vehicle burglaries across Baton Rouge and East Baton Rouge Parish. Spearheaded by Gary Patureau, a longtime crime commissioner, the campaign encourages residents to lock their vehicles nightly at 9 p.m. using their key fobs—ideally from the comfort of their homes. The initiative stems from a troubling trend: most car burglaries occur in unlocked vehicles, often containing valuables like guns, purses, and electronics.

Joined by Baton Rouge Police Chief T.J. Morse and Captain Justin Payer from the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office, the discussion highlights the staggering statistics—68% of vehicle burglaries involve unlocked cars, and 21% of those result in stolen firearms. Last year alone, 300 guns were stolen from vehicles, with this year already seeing 150. These thefts not only endanger individual victims but also compromise neighborhood safety, as criminals return to areas where they’ve previously found easy targets.

Law enforcement is actively supporting Operation Key Fob through social media campaigns, community outreach, and resource deployment, including drones and bait cars. They urge residents to report suspicious activity directly to police rather than just posting on neighborhood apps. The goal is to shift behavior—removing valuables from cars, locking doors, and reducing opportunities for theft.

The initiative also addresses resource strain on law enforcement. Investigating preventable burglaries diverts manpower from more serious crimes. By locking vehicles and securing belongings, residents can help reduce crime and free up police resources. Operation Key Fob is a simple yet powerful reminder: a nightly habit of pressing the lock button can make a significant impact on community safety.

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