Sheriff’s Office Tips For Preventing Theft From Motor Vehicles This Winter

(Harford County, MD, November 20, 2008) – Vehicle thefts often increase during the colder months. Many of these thefts occur when cars are parked but left running in driveways or at convenience stores. In addition, thefts from vehicles have increased over the past year. Many of these thefts occur when cars are parked in driveways or along neighborhood streets. You may want to consider that garage door repair service for the holiday season.

The popularity of GPS, radar detectors, cell phones, computers, and other electronic devices often attract thieves. Teenagers as well as adults often commit these crimes in residential areas, walking from vehicle to vehicle, lifting door handles to see if they can find one unlocked and/or running.

“These circumstances are categorized as crimes of opportunity because unless the opportunity presents itself, the perpetrators usually do notcommit the crime,” said Sgt. Kevin Thomas, supervisor of the Community Policing Unit.

The opportunity arises when vehicles are left unsecured, running, and items of value are left in the vehicle. When the perpetrators find an unlocked vehicle, they will open the door and take whatever is easily removable from the vehicle.

The Sheriff’s Office offers the following tips to reduce the risk of being a victim of theft from your car.

– Always turn your car off when not occupied. Maryland Vehicle Law section 21-1101 prohibits the following: “…a person driving or otherwise in charge of a motor vehicle may not leave it unattended until the engine is stopped, the ignition locked, the key removed, and the brake effectively set.” Violation of this statute may result in a fine of $70.00 or more.

– Always lock your vehicle when it is parked. Criminals prey on the easy victim. By simply locking your vehicle the criminal will usually move on.

– Hide or take it with you. Do not leave purses, wallets, or loose money in your vehicle. If your purse or wallet is taken you could become the victim of other crimes such as stolen checks, credit cards, or even identity theft. Electronics and their accessories including cell phone holders, suction cups,power cords, etc., should be placed out of site, when you are not in your car.

– Park your vehicle in your driveway or garage when possible. If you have a garage or access to a garage, use it and lock it. If you have an attached garage make sure the door between the house and garage is always locked. If your garage door opener is stolen from your vehicle, you risk giving the criminal access to your entire home.

– Park in a well lit area. Lighting is a deterrent. If a thief has to work in the light, the greater the chance he/she will be caught.

Consider starting or actively participating in a Neighborhood Watch Program. Neighborhood Watch is designed to reduce criminal opportunity and prevent crime through awareness, education, and cooperation between the community and the Harford County Sheriff’s Office. To learn more about Neighborhood Watch, contact the Harford County Sheriff’s OfficeCommunity Policing Unit at neighborhoodwatch@harfordsheriff.org.