Purse snatchers targeting busy parents

PALM BEACH COUNTY, Fla. - There have been a rash of recent daytime car break-ins at day care parking lots in Palm Beach County.

As a result deputies are urging parents to take some precautions.

They say their goal is to alert not alarm.

"If they can protect themselves, they are going to save themselves a lot of aggravation," said Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office Captain Matt Eisenberg.

Deputies say the day care centers can be easy targets because moms rushing to drop off and pick up their kids sometimes leave their purses in the cars.

Their new warning to parents is simple. Pick up your purses when you pick up your kids.

"We're just trying to get the word out early. Good habits. Don't leave those items in the car, even for a second," said Eisenberg.

A few seconds are all a thief needs to smash a window and make off with your money.

"The only effort it takes to get into your property is to smash the window. And it's your window, so they really don't care about smashing your window," said Eisenberg.

Deputies are encouraging business owners to share this information with their staff and patrons and remind everyone to report any suspicious activity.