County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Commissioner of Police Patrick Ryder would like to alert the public that we continue to see an increase in stolen autos and larcenies, especially of catalytic converters, from automobiles. We would like to urge the public to be vigilant using the following safety tips as a high percentage of stolen vehicles are caused by leaving the vehicles FOB/key in the car.

The thefts are occurring at all times of the day and night in which the car has been left unlocked and the key fob left in a vehicle equipped with a push button start.

The following are police recommendations to help safeguard your vehicle:

• Always lock your vehicle, even when it’s parked in your driveway.
• Park in your garage when possible. If not, park in your driveway if accessible to prevent the theft of your catalytic converter.
• Remember to lock your garage.
• Always take your keys or fob with you.
• Never leave or hide a smart key, valet key, or spare key in your vehicle.
• Never leave your car running, while unattended or unlocked.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• Keep the exterior of homes and driveways well illuminated.
• Close all your vehicle windows completely when parked.
• Consider installing a GPS system, a visible anti-theft device or an audible alarm.
• Never leave valuable personal property in your vehicle.
• Also, secure your garage door opener to prevent access to your home.

If You “See Something, Say Something”

Dial 9-1-1 and be ready to provide the police with as much information as possible regarding the description of the suspicious person or vehicle. License plate numbers are extremely valuable information for the police.