Full Notification

PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE, DON’T BE A VICTIM OF AUTO THEFT

Automobile thieves target vehicles started outside homes, left unattended to warm-up

Thieves have been targeting automobiles for theft in early morning hours when the vehicles are left idling and unattended to warm-up outside the owners homes. Yesterday, January 4, 2016, sheriff’s deputies responded to a call in Edgewood, NM, regarding a stolen vehicle. The car owner started the vehicle outside the home and left the car unattended in the driveway and went back inside the house. When the victim went outside their vehicle was gone, thieves had taken it.

Help prevent this avoidable crime. Do not leave your car running and unattended for any reason. Don’t be an easy target. “Thieves are always looking for situations that provide an opening to commit a crime. When a driver leaves a running car unattended in their driveway they create an opportunity to have their vehicle stolen. Don’t make yourself an easy target for this crime,” said Santa Fe County Sheriff Robert A. Garcia.

Car theft is a relatively common crime that’s incredibly costly. Most insurance companies will not cover your vehicle if it’s stolen during a warm-up. The insurance company usually finds the owner is responsible for the theft because the keys are left in the vehicle, even if it’s locked. Help us prevent this crime. Leaving your car unattended and running is dangerous. Even if your car is locked thieves will break the window and steal your car in seconds and many stolen cars are used in additional crimes.

If your vehicle is stolen alert your local law enforcement agency. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office can be reached by calling (505) 428-3720 to report a stolen vehicle.