Vehicle Theft Crime Trend and Prevention
Recently, the Livermore Police Department has seen an increase in vehicle thefts involving work-type vehicles.
Between October 1st of 2015 and March 31st of this year, 24 work-type vehicles were stolen in the City of Livermore. A majority of the stolen vehicles are predominantly used for commercial or work purposes. Many of these work-type vehicles have signage or logos on them, and may also have visible toolboxes and utility/lumber racks. Of the vehicles, a majority of them were Ford vans or trucks (primarily F250/F350 and E150-E250) and ranged mostly from 2002 – 2006model years. Approximately 90% of the time the vehicles were locked at the time of theft. There also appears to be more white Ford vehicles stolen than any other color. These vehicle thefts have occurred in residential, commercial, and short-term stay areas such as hotels and motels.
Through the efforts of our department and many neighboring agencies, these vehicles are frequently recovered. However, the high-end tools, equipment, and various work tools that were inside the stolen vehicle are rarely recovered with the vehicle and the license plates are often stolen as well.
Vehicle thefts can be prevented and deterred. As a community we can work together in order to prevent such thefts from occurring. Good anti-theft devices discourage or slow down thieves and increase the risk of suspect apprehension. The Livermore Police Department would like to provide some crime prevention tips to help prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The following tips will help reduce crime and increase quality of life:
• Always lock and secure your vehicle, even if you are only going to be away from your vehicle for a couple of minutes.
• Never leave your car running and unattended, or leave the keys in your vehicle.
• Never hide a spare key to your vehicle on or inside the vehicle.
• Park in well-lighted and high visible areas.
• Consider installing an alarm, an ignition kill switch, a mechanical anti theft device, or vehicle tracking system.
• If your vehicle is equipped with an alarm or anti theft device – use it. Thieves are reluctant to steal vehicles if they know the cars can be recovered quickly. Many insurers offer discounts for the types of systems listed below.
• Do not leave valuables in plain view, such as, briefcases, purses, wallets, laptop/camera bags, gym bags, cellular phones, or any electronic items or devices. These types of items make it enticing for thieves.
• Most importantly, always report any suspicious people or vehicles to the Livermore Police Department at (925) 371-4987 or 9-1-1. Often times the community reporting and calling the police is what leads to suspects being apprehended.
These tips and precautions are an important first step in reducing your chances of becoming a victim of auto theft.
If your vehicle is stolen:
• Contact the police immediately and file a stolen vehicle report.
• Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to submit a theft claim.
• If possible please have your License Plate and/or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) available.
• If you happen to locate your vehicle before the authorities, immediately call the police at the non-emergency number (925) 371-4987or call 9-1-1. Do not approach, touch, and/or attempt to move or drive the vehicle. An officer will respond to locate your vehicle and process it for any evidence.
Stolen vehicles are sometimes used in the commission of a crime. Quick action often results in the recovery of your vehicle, as well as, the prevention of another crime.
