SLC Police arrest woman for $6,000 worth of luggage stolen

SALT LAKE CITY— A 40-year-old woman was arrested by detectives with the Salt Lake City Police Department Airport Division for allegedly stealing multiple pieces of luggage.

The woman was identified as Leticia Herrera.

SLCPD Airport Division responded to a luggage theft in the baggage claim area of the Salt Lake City International Airport around 6:53 p.m. on Jan. 3 when a victim informed them her property had been stolen. The property taken was valued at $6,000 and included multiple financial cards.

On Jan. 26, with the assistance of other agencies, detectives located Herrera and took her into custody in West Jordan, Utah.

Herrera was booked into the Salt Lake County Metro Jail on charges of theft, unlawful possession of a financial card, and three counts of unlawful use of a financial transaction card.

Salt Lake City Police Department sent out the following tips to avoid luggage theft:

• Place irreplaceable or high value items in your carry-on baggage (Note: Passengers should know which items are required to be checked.)
• Reconsider purchasing luxury-branded luggage as this could be an allure to potential thieves.
• Make your checked luggage distinctive using stickers, tape, ribbon or consider purchasing a brightly colored suitcase.
• Keep a record of what you pack and take a photo of your belongings and your luggage. Photos can be helpful during a police investigation and for insurance purposes.
• After landing, avoid unnecessary delays and head to the baggage pick-up area immediately so your bag is not left unattended when on the baggage carousel.
• Ensure your bag is clearly labeled with your contact information. For privacy reasons, an address is not necessary, but a name and phone number should be included.
• If you believe someone has stolen your luggage, be sure to file a police report and file reports with the airline and TSA.
• Report anything suspicious to an airport/airline official or airport police.