Police are warning residents to take precautions amid a recent surge in vehicle thefts.
During the two-month period leading up to July 11, police said, they investigated eight reports of vehicles being taken without the owner’s consent.
“Seven of those vehicles were registered as rental cars, while the remaining one was registered for private use,” according to a July 12 statement from the Police Information Office.
“In all cases, the keys were left in the vehicles either by the owner or by customers. Five of the vehicles were used during the commission of other crimes after being taken without the owners’ consent.”
As a result of investigations, patrols and searches, all eight vehicles were recovered, and “several” people were arrested and charged for “various crimes,” according to the statement.
Police, however, did not name the suspects or provide further details on the charges.
Preventive measures
Following the rash of thefts, police are warning residents to take preventive measures:
• ensure that doors and windows are securely locked whenever a vehicle is unattended;
• avoid leaving keys inside a vehicle or in another easily accessible location, even when leaving a vehicle for someone else to collect; and
• stay alert for people loitering or acting suspiciously in or around parking lots.
Anyone who notices suspicious activity or has information that could assist investigations is asked to call the police access number 311.
“Your cooperation and proactive measures are vital in maintaining the safety and security of our community,” police stated.