Detroit Police Warn of Car Theft Increase; Issue Four-Step Safety Plan

Detroit police issued an alert Wednesday. Vehicle thefts are climbing, as per the Country Herald. Break-ins have spiked across the city, and officers from the 3rd Precinct say thieves are targeting unlocked cars with visible items inside, often in dim or secluded spots.

A four-step prevention guide was released to help Wayne County residents shield their vehicles from theft. These crimes tend to be opportunistic, and several neighborhoods have seen an uptick in incidents.

Lock everything, including doors and windows, every time. Do that even during brief stops or when parking at home. Officers stress that an unlocked vehicle becomes an easy target. Leaving a car running while unattended? That's going to make it easier for thieves to strike.

Step two: stash your valuables, such as electronics, wallets, tools, and bags. If criminals can see them through the glass, they'll break in. Seats and floors shouldn't display anything tempting. Move items to the trunk, or bring them indoors.

Where you park matters. Choose spots with good lighting or lots of people passing by. Garages work best when you have access to one. The 3rd Precinct points out that driveway lights and motion sensors can discourage prowlers after dark.

Want extra security? Officers suggest visible deterrents—steering-wheel locks, brake locks, that sort of thing. Alarms help. So do tracking systems. VIN etching on windows makes stolen vehicles harder to resell or strip for parts.

Questions? Residents can reach the 3rd Precinct's Neighborhood Police Officers at 313-596-5300. Email works too: dorseyd832@detroitmi.gov.