We have had many reports of theft involving electronics such as laptops and cell phones within the last few months.  The items have been stolen during residential/vehicle breaking and entering, street robberies and general theft.

Certain smart phones, such as the IPhone, have a locate feature that can aid the police when reported stolen.  There have been several arrests around the city by using this feature.  Contact your cell phone carrier for more details.

There is software available to aid in the recovery of a stolen laptop such as GadgetTrak and Lojack.  We don't make product recommendations.  Please do your own research if you are interested in this service.  Typically, there is an annual fee for the software.

Below is a post from www.bpdnews.com

Apple iPhone Leads Police to Cell Phone Stealing Suspect

At about 1:04am, Tuesday December 20, 2011, officers from Area A-1 (Downtown) responded to a radio call for a larceny at 100 Tremont Street (The W Hotel). On arrival, officers spoke to the victim who stated that several items – including her iPhone – were stolen from her purse. Witnesses say a black male wearing a black and white sweater was seen hovering around the victim’s purse. In an effort to locate her phone, the victim activated her Find My iPhone Application. In short time, officers were able to trace the phone to a housing development in the area of 1472 Washington Street. Upon entering the location, officers were able to locate a male who fit the description of the suspect sitting in the stairwell. A pat frisk of the suspect enabled officers to locate an Apple iPhone. Officers then asked the victim to call her phone. When she did, the phone in the suspect’s possession began to ring. A search of the suspect enabled officers to locate personal papers belonging to the victim.    

Officers arrested Thomas Banks, 51, of Boston and charged him with Larceny Over $250.00 and Receiving Stolen Goods.