What is a Vehicle Burglary?
Vehicle Burglary is the theft of property (any value) from a locked vehicle. This is a felony. Theft of property from an unlocked vehicle, however, is generally a misdemeanor, unless the value of the stolen property is equal to or greater than $950.
What Items are Most Commonly Stolen?
- Briefcases and computers
- Cash, jewelry, mail and keys
- Garage door openers
- Cell phones and chargers
- Purses, wallets, and day planners (even if under seat)
- Stereos and face plates
- Gym bags
- Tools
What Steps Can I Take to Prevent Being a Victim?
Remember, an unlocked car is an open invitation to a car thief.
- Lock up, whenever you leave your car, and take the keys with you.
- Lock the trunk and/or tailgate
- Close all windows - professional thieves have tools that help unlock cars through a minimum of open space.
- Be sure vents and sunroofs are shut tight and locked. These are a favorite means of entry for car thieves.
- Lock your car even if you are making a quick stop at the gas station, convenience store, or mini mall.
- Buy an alarm and use it. If thieves have two cars to choose from - one with an alarm and one without, they will burglarize the one without.
Can Auto Burglary Lead to Residential Burglary?
Garage door openers, house keys or vehicle registrations left in your car can lead to identity theft and residential burglary.
- Black out the address on the registration and photocopy it. Keep the copy, not the original, in your car.
- Do not leave outgoing or incoming mail in your car, especially where visible. This has your name and address on it. Thieves target mail for checks and identity theft.
- Take your garage door opener it with you or, if that isn't possible, conceal it in your vehicle.
Remember...You Hold the Key!
You can help eliminate crime by remembering these important safety tips:
- Remove visible items from your vehicle.
- DO NOT leave items in plain view.
- DO NOT leave your remote garage door opener in the vehicle.
- DO NOT leave the engine running when you are away from the vehicle.
- DO NOT keep original ownership papers in your vehicle.
