"The thief was caught in the act by a security guard and held for the Oklahoma City police. Right on the spot the police discovered my car without a tag and immediately called the Norman police. Within minutes the Norman police called me. I must tell you I rejoiced over the news.?

English said his insurance company permitted him to check for personal items that might have been left in the car.

"My Bible is still missing, but I did get my umbrella -- a small victory. All the other items that had been in my car were gone," he said.

English said he's appreciative of the security guard who caught the suspect and the Oklahoma City and Norman police departments.

"It's a community effort to fight crime and here we see a living example," he said.

"Sadly, the public must be aware that our possessions are constantly being observed by an element of our society who preys on the unsuspecting. (The detective) reminded me, 'Don't ever leave your keys inside your car.' That is great advice. I have another -- make sure your garage door is down," English said.

Tom Blakey 366-3540 tblakey@normantranscript.com?