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Burglaries to MV's

Theft of a car is not the only crime that occurs involving a motor vehicle.  Car thefts get a great deal of attention, but burglaries to motor vehicles and the subsequent theft of personal items is another crime that the public needs to be aware of. 

The Township of Union Police Department advises residents that there are some simple steps that can be taken to keep from losing often costly personal property.

When you park your vehicle remove items such as cell phones, mp3 players and personal music systems, cameras, wallets, purses, garage door openers and other items of value that are with you in your car.  Also remove brief cases, and other containers which hold personal information that could put you or others at risk for identity theft.

“When items of value are in plain view they present a sometimes irresistible temptation to a potential thief,” warns Thomas Kraemer, Chief of Police.  “It only takes a few extra seconds to secure your items in the trunk or take valuable items with you.  These few minutes spent can avoid future expenditures of significant amounts of money,” Kraemer added.

Drivers of vehicles should avoid using the car seat as a place to store items, and.  should also avoid having any personal documents in plain few.  These documents  could present a opportunity for identity theft.

Citizens should especially be alert in the case of missing or stolen garage door openers.  Thefts should be reported to the police and the code for the door system should be changed immediately.

Residents are also cautioned against leaving their vehicles unlocked, and/or leaving their keys in the ignition.

A few extra seconds can help prevent a crime.