DALLAS — Dallas police have increased patrols around White Rock Lake after reports of vehicle break-ins rose to 58 in 2026, compared with 18 during the same period last year.
Dallas Police Department said the 58 reported burglaries of motor vehicles include incidents outside the immediate lake area.
Police recorded 13 vehicle burglaries in the White Rock Lake area in 2024.
The department has increased bike and utility terrain vehicle patrols in areas where break-ins have occurred, including a dog park at 8000 Mockingbird Lane and an area near 300 E. Lawther Lane.
Police also have met with local Crime Watch groups to promote their “Lock, Take & Hide” crime-prevention message.
Dallas Parks & Recreation has installed signs reminding visitors to lock their vehicles, take their keys and keep valuables out of sight.
Despite the increase in reported vehicle burglaries this year, police said overall crime in the area remains consistent with previous years.
Residents report repeated break-ins
Emma Jamail, who leads a workout class at White Rock Lake on Wednesdays, said members of her group have had items stolen from their vehicles for three consecutive weeks.
Jamail said thieves stole her wallet and work badge.
Another visitor, Lisa DeLano, said she took precautions to protect her belongings before walking at the lake but returned to find her vehicle broken into.
DeLano said the only item missing from her vehicle was a bag of dog treats.
“I didn’t think that anyone would see that through the window and think, ‘Oh, that’s worth something.’ So my first reaction was just like, I hope they eat them,” DeLano said.
Although the theft caused little financial loss, DeLano said the incident changed how she feels while visiting the lake.
“I spend time at the lake worrying about my belongings and my personal property. I spend time being suspicious of other people on the trail and trying to clock people now. And that’s not why you go to the lake.”
Dallas police said they will continue monitoring the area and combining targeted patrols, community outreach and crime-prevention efforts.
Police urged visitors to lock their vehicles and keep valuables hidden when parking at or near areas where break-ins have occurred.
