Full Notification

POLICE WARN AGAINST LEAVING VEHICLES RUNNING UNATTENDED

Modesto, CA – Modesto Police are teaming up with StanCatt and other county law enforcement agencies to remind motorists not to leave their vehicles running, unattended as the weather turns colder.

As the weather turns colder local law enforcement agencies see an increase in cars and trucks that are stolen as motorists leave them running unattended while warming the interior. Doing so, even momentarily, invites car thieves to quickly take the car. This type of car theft is 100% preventable and, therefore, police would like to encourage vehicle owners to think twice before making themselves a target for theft.

A similar incident has already occurred this year. On September 30th a Chevy Tahoe was taken from in front of a home in southeast Modesto. Police believe the suspect was a passenger in another passing pickup. The suspect is believed to have jumped into the idling vehicle and drove away. This type of theft only takes seconds and running vehicles are easy for thieves to spot because exhaust is clearly visible in colder weather.

It may be a crime to leave vehicles running unattended; punishable by a fine. Aside from the possible fines, loss of personal belongings and increased insurance rates can be another consequence.

As the seasons change, police would like to take this opportunity to encourage motorists to park their vehicles in garages if possible, place all valuables out of plain sight, don’t leave keys in the ignition, lock the doors, use anti-theft devices, and park in well lit areas if possible.

For further information about this press release please contact Sergeant Brian Findlen at (209) 652-1386.