Police Tips: Auto Burglary Prevention

From Newark Police

Thieves are looking for easy targets. If they see laptops, GPS units, cell phones, purses, keys, briefcases, etc. in plain view in your car, they will attempt to steal them. This can be very inconvenient to car owners because not only is your personal property taken, but the cost of repairing a broken window or other damages done by the thief can be expensive to repair. 

Vehicle owners can deter thieves by following some standard practices: 

1. Remove visible items from your vehicle - If you leave items visible in your car, you are a target. Be aware that someone may be watching as you put a wallet, purse, or cell phone under your seat or in your trunk. Take these with you or secure them in your trunk before you get to your destination. 
2. Keep your car tidy and neat: Thieves take things you might think are worthless (sunglasses, loose change, CD’s, clothing…) smashing your window in the process. 
3. Lock Up! Lock your vehicle and take your keys, even for quick errands. 
4. Lock the trunk, hatchback or tailgate to block access into the vehicle. 
5. Close all windows, including vent or wing windows and sunroofs. 
6. Vehicle alarms - Get an alarm and use it! Many people believe that alarms no longer make a difference; however, they do remain an effective deterrent to a burglar. Remember criminals are looking for the easy target. 
7. Vehicle Registration/Insurance Information – Lock it in your glove compartment. 
8. Do not attach personal information to your keys - If your keys are stolen, having your personal information or vehicle license number attached only compounds the problem. A criminal now may have access to your home, automobile or office. 
9. Mail - Do not leave outgoing or incoming mail in your car, especially where visible. This has your name and address on it. 
10. Garage Door Opener - Avoid leaving this in your car if possible. 
11. At home, park in your garage if you have one. Lock your car and all garage doors. 
12. Park in a well-lit area. 

These simple steps should be used whenever you park your car, whether you are just “running in for a minute” or parking for the evening. 

Report anyone that is seen trying door handles, looking in cars or loitering in the parking lot. If the crime is in progress, dial 9-1-1. The call taker will ask you who you are and where you are calling from. Then they will ask you to describe the suspect (race, sex, height, weight and clothing description). If the incident has already occurred call the non-emergency police phone line. If in the City of Newark, call (510) 578-5237.