It’s Cold Outside: Car Thieves Don’t Care
Protect Your Vehicles
Recovered stolen vehicle. The owner had left the keys in the ignition.
Cold snaps and the busy holiday season can make conditions ripe for vehicle thieves. Take precautions, stay alert and don’t become a victim.
A woman in the 6200 block of Bren Mar Drive started her car at around 8 a.m., Wednesday, December 11 and went back inside while it warmed up. Thieves apparently noticed. They jumped in and took off. Fortunately, in this case, officers apprehended two juveniles and two other suspects.
Thefts resulting from cold weather start-ups are not uncommon. There were 47 vehicles stolen in Fairfax County between December 1 and January 6 in 2012. In addition to being cold, the holidays are also hectic and busy times for many. Detectives urge residents to pay attention to small details such as the whereabouts of spare keys. Often, motorists leave keys in the glove box or, perhaps, feel the car is safe since it’s in a garage or driveway. It isn’t.
There were 808 vehicles stolen in 2012; down from 877 in 2011. Auto Theft Unit detectives urge residents to remember these tips:
- Never leave your keys in your vehicle.
- Never leave your car running unattended.
- Never leave valuables visible in your vehicle.
- Consider installing anti-theft technologies and devices.
- Park in well-lit areas when possible.
- If your car is stolen, report it to police immediately.
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