Rocky Hill Leaders Demand State Action On Car Break-Ins

ROCKY HILL, CT — Town officials have begun circulating a petition calling on state legislators to take action against a spike in car break-ins and car thefts, according to FOX 61. One woman was pulled from her car during the day on a busy road last month, and her car was stolen by the suspects.

Mayor Lisa Marotta is calling for a law that specifically targets repeat offenders, according to FOX 61.

Part of the petition reads:

Dear Governor Lamont and Connecticut State Lawmakers:

We, the undersigned elected officials, residents, and business owners, remain concerned about the safety of our communities. Property crime continues to run rampant throughout our municipalities resulting in the loss of life, safety, and property. We recognize and appreciate the policy steps you have taken. A broader review of the menu of options before you must occur, however, if we are to address this crisis. The codification of new law is essential to deter behavior, particularly that of the 10% of repeat juvenile offenders who lack accountability and a system that provides adequate resources necessary to decrease recidivism rates.

We urge you to fully commit to calling a Special Session to specifically address property crime as it relates to the theft of stolen motor vehicles and theft of property from motor vehicles. Strong, vibrant communities are founded upon safe communities. Our communities are crumbling. We cannot wait a minute longer for you to collaborate with us in finding solutions.

The need for action at the State level has never been clearer. We see, time and again, that the hard work at the local level, including increased police presence, resources and community outreach is not enough to keep our neighborhoods safe. We alone cannot effectuate change. Change must come from the State level.

Please help us do our part to keep communities safe by doing your part.
Sincerely,

Concerned elected officials, residents, and business owners.

See related: Manchester Police Department Sees Uptick In Auto Burglaries

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, about 40 to 50 percent of these crimes are due to driver error, which includes leaving vehicle doors unlocked and leaving keys in the ignition or on the seats.

Here are some tips to avoid your vehicle becoming a target:

• Never leave valuables inside your vehicle. If you must, put them in the trunk, so they are out of sight.
• Always remember to lock your vehicle's doors, put up the windows and take your keys with you.
• Park in a well-lit area where there is a lot of foot traffic. Dark and secluded areas are preferred by thieves, since they are less likely to be caught in the act of a crime.
• Never leave the area while your vehicle is running.
• Consider installing an alarm. It'll loudly bring attention to anyone trying to get into your vehicle.