Car Thefts On The Rise In Wallingford: Police

WALLINGFORD, CT — Police are reminding residents to lock their cars after seeing a recent increase in vehicles being stolen in Wallingford.

There have been 24 reported stolen vehicles this year in Wallingford as of March 1, which is 17 more than from the same period last year, representing a 243 percent increase, according to Sgt. Stephen Jaques.

“This increase is attributed largely to people leaving their vehicles unlocked and running to warm their vehicles up in the morning while getting ready to leave home for the day,” Jaques wrote in a news release. “Thieves across the state are targeting vehicles being left in this vulnerable condition. While we recognize citizens would like their morning commute to be pleasant, if you leave your keys in your vehicle while it is running/ warming up in the morning, there is a risk that your car will be stolen.”

Police are offering the following tips to help avoid becoming the victim of a stolen vehicle crime:

1. Lock your car doors when your vehicle is left unattended.

2. Remove any keys/fobs from the vehicle when you are not in it.

3. Remove any expensive/ valuable items from your vehicle if it must be left outdoors.

4. Do not leave your car running with the keys in it while you are not present.

5. Install surveillance cameras on the exterior of your home.

6. Try installing a remote starter kit if your vehicle is not equipped with one if you like to warm your vehicle up in the morning.

Jaques said the Wallingford Police Department has applied for the ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) Auto Theft and Violence Grant to provide additional resources to combat the rise in motor vehicle thefts.

Police are asking residents to report any thefts to the department’s routine line at 203-294-2800. For any crimes-in-progress or emergencies, call 911.