Did you know that a vehicle is stolen every 44 seconds in the United States? Sadly, nearly half of those are by virtual open invitation thanks to unlocked doors or even worse, keys were left in the ignition. The Michigan Automobile Theft Prevention Authority is cautioning the public that auto thefts are on the rise in Michigan. In 2016, Michigan reported 20,477 stolen vehicles and current data indicates that 2017 is on track to potentially surpass those numbers.
The Michigan State Police say, in addition to locking your vehicle and taking the keys with you, these precautions could lessen the likelihood of you becoming a victim of auto theft:
- Closing windows when your vehicle is parked…
- Avoiding leaving valuables in your vehicle, especially where they can be seen…
- Not leaving your vehicle running unattended…
- Parking in well-lit areas…
- Keeping your vehicle in your garage, if possible…
- Keeping exterior house lights on at night…
- Installing a car alarm or using a theft deterrent device like a steering wheel lock or gear shift column lock
There have been many thefts in neighborhoods around Southwest Michigan in recent weeks and months, most of them from unlocked vehicles.
Authorities remind us we should also keep an eye out for suspicious vehicles in the neighborhood. If you see out-of-place people, report them to law enforcement immediately. If you are purchasing or selling a vehicle through an online sales site, complete the transaction during business hours at a police department or Secretary of State office. Never invite strangers to your home or meet in non-public places. Always inspect the vehicle title closely before purchase and if anything looks odd, postpone the sale until you can confirm its legitimacy.
Over the last 10 years, Michigan’s Automobile Theft Prevention Authority has assisted in the reduction of motor vehicle thefts in Michigan by 56-percent. That organization awards grants to law enforcement agencies, prosecutors’ offices and non-profit organizations for the investigation, apprehension, prosecution and prevention of motor vehicle thefts. During the 2016 grant year, the grant-funded motor vehicle theft teams made 1,819 arrests and recovered vehicles and parts worth approximately $37 million. For more information about the ATPA, visit www.michigan.gov/atpa.
