NORFOLK, Va. (NPD) – With the recent extreme cold temperatures, it is no coincidence that Norfolk police are seeing an increase in stolen autos.
“During cold weather,” auto theft detectives say, “motorists often leave their vehicles running unattended in an attempt to warm their car; but, in a matter of seconds, their car could be taken.”
Since January 1, 2018, there have been 40 reports of stolen vehicles in Norfolk.
The best advice in preventing your vehicle from being stolen is NOT to leave your vehicle running unattended or leave your keys inside the car. Out of the 40 stolen vehicles this month, 55% of those vehicles had either been left running unattended or had keys left inside the vehicle.
These incidents are crimes of opportunity and can be reduced with help from the community.
Detectives encourage residents not leave their vehicles running unattended whether or not the doors are locked. Even if a car is locked, a window can be broken to gain entry into a running vehicle.
To learn more about ways to prevent auto theft, or to schedule a safety presentation at your civic league or neighborhood watch meeting, contact the Community Affairs Division at 757-664-6901 or, complete the Community Engagement Request Application.
For more information regarding crime in your neighborhood, visit Crimemapping.com.
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