(LONDON ON) – The West Region Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Crime Unit is warning residents in Wellington, Huron and Perth counties of an increase in the number of vehicle thefts.
OPP is reporting 69 vehicle thefts in the three counties over the past six months. 50% – 60% of the vehicle thefts occurred while the keys to the vehicle were either inside the vehicle or in the ignition.
“These crimes are preventable and often result in the suspects engaging in other criminal activity with the stolen vehicle.” – Detective Staff Sergeant Gaynor.
The message is quite simple; Lock it or lose it! Police encourage all vehicle owners to ensure all valuables are removed from their vehicles, the vehicles locked and the keys secured in a safe location away from the vehicle.
OPP remind vehicle operators never to leave vehicles unattended and running. All too often, would-be-thieves are waiting outside stores, fast-food restaurants and other locations just waiting for these crimes of opportunity. Don’t help them out.
Police encourage all citizens to report any and all suspicious activity to police when it happens. Do not turn a blind eye to crime. Crime Prevention is everyone’s responsibility. If in doubt … give us a shout! Call 911.