Tips to Prevent Vehicle Break-ins While Shopping or Attending Sporting Events

A warning from Indianapolis Downtown Inc.: It seems every year about this time larcenies from vehicles increase as people leave items in plain sight when they park their cars to attend sporting events, conventions or to shop.

There has been a recent rash of vehicle breakins during events including the FFA Convention and the Nov. 1 Colts game. The good news is that IMPD has increased patrols and undercover activity and they have apprehended at least one suspect in some recent break-ins. The bad news is that we know more break-ins are likely to happen.

Please be advised that vehicle break-ins at the last Colts game targeted parking facilities north of Washington Street, most likely due to increased police presence near Lucas Oil Stadium.

As we enter the holiday season and continue with Colts and Pacers seasons, IMPD asks that you remind your customers to not leave items in plain sight in their parked cars and to increase your on-site security to watch for perpetrators. We know that larcenies from vehicles are crimes of opportunity-let's work to reduce the opportunities so we can reduce the number of crimes.

Indiana Pacers Parking at Bankers Life Fieldhouse

Parking downtown is more of an adventure during the Indiana Pacers season and when concerts and other events are planned for Bankers Life Fieldhouse. But even spaces near the arena formerly known as Conseco Fieldhouse can be found for reasonable prices. Here are a few tips:

• For the plan-ahead crowd, you can reserve a spot in advance and remove the hassle of hunting for parking. A handful of garages and lot owners allow you to make a parking reservation (book now) before you head downtown.
• The most convenience place to park is the Virginia Avenue Parking Garage, a 2,200-space garage that connects to the stadium via a walkway over Delaware Street. Prices vary but the standard rate for all day is $12, and some spaces are reserved. If you want a deal, ask for the roof rate.
• Your most frugal bet is to find an empty meter space a few blocks from Bankers Life Fieldhouse, and walk a few blocks. Most meters in the area cost $1.50 per hour until 9 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and are free on Sundays.
• Privately owned lots and garages near the stadium generally charge between $10 and $20 for special events and high-demand Pacers games.

Pacers Offering Parking Incentives

PLEASE NOTE: This is an archive post from 2008. Visit our Indiana Pacers Parking page for up-to-date information.
The Indiana Pacers are sweetening season-ticket packages by throwing in free parking. The team has been struggling of late, so now is a great time for fans to lock in great seats along with a great -- and in some cases free -- parking spot. Get all the details at the Pacers' box office.