Since July, area law enforcement agencies have seen an increase of vehicles being stolen across Monroe County. They have identified three trends:
1. During the night, residential neighborhoods are being targeted, often by a group of teenagers, three to six people, entering unlocked vehicles. They will find a set of keys inside the vehicle and steal the car.
2. Victims are being forced out of their cars by the threat of physical force or a weapon is being displayed such as a gun or knife (car jacking).
3. Residential homes are being entered, often during the nighttime, through an unlocked door or window. Once inside the home, they locate the keys to the car on the kitchen counter.
Police have made numerous arrests and there are cases pending. The problem continues and law enforcement agencies are offering the following suggestions to residents:
1. If you are confronted with a weapon or physical force, surrender the vehicle. A car is replaceable, a life is not.
2. Leave outside house lights on during the night.
3. Keep your house doors and windows locked.
4. Keep your car locked.
5. Don’t leave a spare set of keys in your parked vehicle.
6. Don’t leave any firearms in your vehicle.
7. If you see your car dome light on in the middle of the night or see anyone checking unlocked cars by walking up and down driveways, quietly call 911 and provide as much information as you can.
Police say that stopping this latest trend of crime will take a community effort and are asking for residents’ cooperation and assistance.
Provided information
