March 17, 2005:

Livonia: The Michigan State Police has recently become aware of a new tactic thieves are using to steal vehicles. Realizing that people who have keypad entry systems often leave their keys locked inside the vehicle, thieves are targeting SUV’s with keyless entry pads. The Michigan State Police would like to remind people not to leave their keys locked inside their vehicle at anytime.

According to HEAT (Help Eliminate Auto Theft), nearly 20 percent of all vehicles stolen have keys inside them.

"One of the simplest ways to reduce the chances of your vehicle being stolen, is to not leave your keys inside," stated D/F/Lt. Edward Gerds. "Even if you have a keyless entry pad, you should always remove your keys from your vehicle."

Other tips to prevent your vehicle from being stolen include:

• Lock your car – half of all vehicles stolen are left unlocked.
• Park in well-lighted areas - car theft occurs at night more than half the time.
• Park in attended lots – car thieves don’t like witnesses.
• Don’t leave valuables in plain view – they may invite thieves to break into your car.
• Completely close your windows – don’t make it easy to gain access to your car.
• Don’t hide a spare set of keys in the car – the pros know where to look.
• Don’t keep your registration in your glove compartment. Thieves have just what they need if they steal your car. Keep it in your wallet.

Ways to make it harder for thieves to steal your car include:

• Park with your wheels turned toward the curb.
• If your vehicle has rear–wheel drive, back into your driveway – rear wheels lock on rear–wheel drive vehicles, making them tough to tow. Front- wheel drive vehicles should be parked front end first.
• Always use your emergency brake when parking.
• If you have a garage, use it; and when you do, lock both the vehicle and the garage door.
• If your vehicle is going to be unattended for a long period of time, disable it; for example, remove the ignition fuse or coil wire.

The Michigan State Police coordinates five auto theft teams covering eleven counties. They investigated 1,030 complaints, arrested 260 individuals, and recovered 742 vehicles with a combined value of $8.4 million in 2004.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

D/Lt. Richard Hayward, Western Wayne Auto Theft, (734) 397-0090, ext. 13

Read more news releases from the Michigan State Police.