Billings, Montana – Billings, a city grappling with a significant rise in weapon thefts, is facing a growing public safety concern. In 2023 alone, nearly 200 weapons were reported stolen from vehicles, as stated by the Billings police. This alarming number not only highlights the issue of theft but also the potential for these incidents to lead to more violent crimes in the area.
The thefts are part of a broader trend of criminals targeting unlocked doors of homes and vehicles. Laurie Welch, a resident of Lockwood, experienced this firsthand when her home surveillance system caught three men attempting to enter her property. One suspect was seen opening her screen door multiple times, triggered by the noises from her Ring doorbell camera. Welch recounted her anxiety during this ordeal, emphasizing the difference her security system made. “I was on edge definitely,” she said, acknowledging the potentially dangerous situation had she not been equipped with the camera.
The consequences of these thefts can be devastating, as seen in the case of Brassar McCabe. A few months prior to Welch’s incident, McCabe confronted a group of teens attempting to break into his vehicle near Welch’s home. Tragically, he was shot multiple times and is now paralyzed from the waist down, undergoing recovery in a Colorado hospital.
Community Service Officer Amanda Newell shed light on the frequency of weapons theft calls received in 2023. “I would say last month and before, we were getting them almost daily,” Newell said, highlighting the extent of the problem. These thefts often fall under the jurisdiction of community service officers like Newell, especially when there are no immediate suspects. Their responsibility includes examining surveillance footage to track down the perpetrators.
The statistics provided by Billings Police Lt. Matthew Lennick paint a worrying picture. From December 1, 2022, to December 1, 2023, there were 690 reported cases of theft from vehicles, with 177 involving stolen weapons. This trend underscores the urgent need for heightened security measures among residents.
Law enforcement officers, including Newell, are advising residents to take proactive steps to protect their property. Newell emphasized the importance of not leaving weapons in cars, even for short periods, due to the swift nature of these thefts.
Welch, reflecting on her recent scare, plans to enhance her security measures. “Now, I’m going to have my cameras on, my doors locked and a lot more things tightened up,” she stated. Her experience and the broader trend in Billings are stark reminders of the necessity of vigilance and the importance of securing homes and vehicles to prevent thefts, especially of such dangerous items as firearms.
