Cold Weather Vehicle Thefts in Janesville
Over the past 2 months the Janesville Police Department has identified 13 vehicle thefts in our community. In 10 of these cases, the keys were left in the vehicle. In 6 of these incidents the vehicle was left running.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a vehicle is stolen every 46 seconds in the United States. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates 40 to 50 percent of vehicle theft is due to driver error and only about half the vehicles are recovered. The most popular items that attract thieves are the engine, transmission, air bags, radios, GPS navigation systems, iPods, laptops, and purses.
Tips to Prevent Thefts of Motor Vehicles
• Lock your car. It is common sense that many thefts happen to unlocked vehicles. The goal is to make your car less desirable than others, and a locked door is a simple deterrent.
• Never leave your car running unattended and always take your keys with you. Otherwise, you are inviting thieves to drive off with your vehicle.
• Keep windows closed when you park and leave your vehicle. A slender arm or clothes hanger can reach in through even a narrow opening to unlock the door.
• Don't store valuables or expensive electronics in plain sight. Don't create an unnecessary temptation: take portable devices with you.
• Park in a well-lighted, public place when running errands and at home. Also, a car will be safer in a garage than in a driveway or at a curb.
This message is not intended to alarm the public. The stolen vehicles identified over the past 2 months were not occupied. Other areas in our region are experiencing a similar trend. This message is simply a reminder to all to take the extra step and make sure you are not a vulnerable target.
Sergeant Aaron Ellis
Janesville Police Department
Community Services Division
Address/Location
Janesville Police Department
100 N Jackson St
Janesville, WI 53548
Contact
Emergency: 9-1-1
Non-emergencies: 608-755-3100