Vehicle thefts are up 40% as of this time compared to last year. According to Lt. Malinowski, “84 vehicles have been stolen so far in 2022”. A majority of these thefts occur when driver’s leave their keys in an empty car with the vehicle still running. Keys should never be left in an empty vehicle, even if only for a second. A quick trip into the store while leaving one’s vehicle unoccupied and running can result in it being stolen.
Leaving a vehicle empty, running and unattended not only puts the driver at risk of having their vehicle stolen, but it is also illegal. Additionally, stolen vehicles are typically used in other crimes like shootings and robberies, emphasizing the importance of locking one’s vehicle when unattended to keep our community safe.
In an effort to prevent vehicles from being stolen and keep the community safe, those who leave their vehicles unoccupied and running may receive tickets, face fines or be towed. Drivers should always remove their keys from their car and lock it when they are not in it.
