(WTVR) - Police across the nation are warning women about sliders at gas stations. Purse thieves, known as sliders, are sneaking into cars and taking purses while women are distracted pumping gas.
"They say it's sliding because they're sliding below the eye level of the door," Houston Police investigator Jim Woods said.
Police said sliders prey on the misconception that no one would steal from your car while you stood right next to the vehicle. Police said the crime often happens so fast, the victim has no idea what's going on until it's too late.
"A vehicle is not a secure location for your property," Woods said.
Police said the crime can be prevented by keeping purses out of sight, taking your purse with you while pumping gas or by locking your car doors.
CBS 6 has contacted several local police departments to determine if any slider thefts have been reported in Central Virginia. Police in Richmond and Chesterfield and Sheriff's Deputies in Hanover replied to say sliders" do not appear to be an issue in the city and counties.
(The CNN wire contributed to this report)
