Gloucester Township Police and our Gloucester Township, New Jersey Convenience Stores remind you to "Shut Off Your Vehicle And Lock It" prior to entering the stores.
Gloucester Township Police Officers have investigated NUMEROUS reports over the years of vehicles that were stolen from the front of several convenience store. ALL were left running and unattended. Criminals looking for a quick, free ride are waiting for the opportunity to steal your vehicle. "I only ran into the store for a minute" is a poor, common excuse that victims of stolen vehicles have told our Gloucester Township Police Officers.
Bottom Line- A vehicle left unattended and with the motor running is an open invitation to a thief (unless you have auto start that doesn't allow a thief to drive off in it). It is also a violation of New Jersey Statute 39:4-53 -Leaving your Engine Running and Unoccupied. The law is meant to prevent the recklessness and public danger that generally come with stolen vehicles.
