Full Notification

Newark Public Safety Director Anthony F. Ambrose urges drivers to refrain from leaving vehicles running and unattended or with key fobs left inside the cars.

“So far this year, we show that 22 percent of vehicles reported stolen were left running and unattended,” Director Ambrose said. “And 11 percent of reported carjackings involved vehicles left running. We’re asking the public to be more vigilant and to discontinue leaving their vehicles running with their keys in the ignition.”

It only takes seconds for a thief to steal a vehicle left running and unoccupied while warming up the vehicle or while making a “quick” purchase or transaction with their car keys in the ignition. In this scenario, the thief only needs to break a window to enter the car and drive off.

Vehicle owners are warned to follow the below precautions to prevent vehicular crimes:

• Install a remote starter so you can warm up or cool down your car without unlocking its doors
• Install a vehicle tracking device to find your car in the event of a theft
• Keep valuables in your vehicle hidden from plain view to deter thefts
• Park in public, well-lit, security-monitored parking areas
• Never leave your car unlocked, even in low-crime areas and neighborhoods
• Keep windows rolled up, even on hot summer days
• Do not leave a spare key in or near your vehicle
• Activate an audible alarm system

Director Ambrose urges anyone with information about any suspicious or criminal activity to call the Department's 24-hour Crime Stopper tip line at 1-877-NWK-TIPS (1-877-695-8477) or 1-877-NWK-GUNS (1-877-695-4867). All anonymous Crime Stopper tips are kept confidential and could result in a reward.

Anonymous tips may also be made using the Police Division’s website at: www.newarkpd.org or through our Smartphone App available at iTunes and Google Play. Search Newark Police Division to download the App.

TO VIEW VIDEO: COPY AND PASTE THE BELOW LINK INTO YOUR WEB BROWSER: https://youtu.be/rP63oP1baBA