Huron OPP report high number of vehicle thefts

(HURON COUNTY, ON) -  The “Lock-it or Lose-it” message doesn’t seem to be registering for some vehicle owners. 

Officers from the Huron, Perth and Wellington County OPP detachments continue to investigate a high number of vehicle thefts where the ignition key has been left in the vehicle. 

Since Sept. 24, 11 vehicles were stolen within the tri-county area. Seven of the stolen vehicles were left insecure with the ignition key inside the vehicle. 

           

All of these thefts were completely preventable had the owner simply secured the vehicle and removed the ignition key. 

While the vast majority of vehicle owners do take steps to prevent theft, there are still those who are rolling the dice by leaving keys in the vehicle. Take your chances and you may find yourself without a vehicle. Crime prevention is everyone’s business and Huron OPP is asking for your help.
 

Here are some suggestions for owners on how to best protect your property and reduce your chance of becoming a victim:

 

• Always roll up your vehicle’s windows, lock the doors and pocket the key
• Never leave your vehicle unattended while its running
• If you have a garage, use it; lock the vehicle and the garage doors
• Never leave your vehicle keys in plain view or easily accessible
• Always park in a busy, well-lit area
• Never leave valuable objects or packages in plain view
• Watch out for suspicious people or activity in your neighbourhood; call police immediately, don’t delay; your information may help solve a crime.

Any person with information regarding this stolen vehicle occurrence or any other should immediately contact Huron OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or (519) 524-8314. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.