Cold temperatures contributing to running up car theft cases
By Jazmine Knight
While it’s tempting to keep empty cars running to combat freezing temperatures, police are warning residents that comfort isn’t worth the risk it brings.
From December until now, the St. Joseph Police Department has taken reports of about 30 auto thefts in the city.
One of the main drivers of the uptick in stolen vehicles has been the cold temperatures. It’s common for people to leave their vehicles running and unattended in an attempt to let the car warm up, and although it might be more comfortable for drivers, it also gives thieves an opportunity, police say.
“The biggest thing with the stolen cars is to keep them locked,” said Sgt. Patrick Zeamer with the police department’s crime prevention unit. “Don’t leave the keys in the car.”
He said nationally more vehicles are stolen in the winter months because of cars left running.
Cars in the area also are being reported stolen because people are lending them out and then they are not returned.
Zeamer advises residents to be smart and “keep an eye on your car.”
“If you are using remote start, they’re designed for drivers to get in the car and hit the brake and they shut off (if there are no keys in the vehicle),” Zeamer said. “Not always does that work but that’s how they’re designed to work.”
Zeamer said leaving vehicles unattended and running at places like stores and gas stations is an especially bad idea. He encourages people to lock cars and avoid leaving children, pets or valuable belongings inside. He also reminds people that it’s illegal to leave your child inside their car unless they’re over the age of 11.
Overall, Zeamer said, advice for hanging on to your car is simple.
”If you’re getting out of the vehicle, do not leave the keys in it. Do not leave it running because it’s all about that kind of opportunity,” he said. “If you give them any second they need to do that, they’re going to hop in and take off with it. The best thing to do if you’re going to run in, get out the keys when you go inside. I know sometimes it’s an inconvenience to get your kids in and out, but that’s the best way to do it.”
More information about crime in your area can be found by visiting communitycrimemap.com.
