Car Thefts Continue To Plague Westport, Cops Say

WESTPORT, CT — Police have seen "an increase in stolen vehicle attempts, stolen vehicles, and car break-ins" in Westport in recent weeks, and of those vehicles, they all had something in common.

They had been left unlocked.

Westport police did not disclose the number of such incidents, but the department is urging residents to be vigilant about locking their vehicles.

"One recent incident involved five masked individuals that were observed entering a garage and attempting to steal the vehicle inside," wrote Westport Police Lt. Eric Woods in a statement. "The group came to the area in a car which had been stolen from another jurisdiction."

The recent vehicle crimes are being investigated by the department's Detective Bureau, with assistance from the Bridgeport Regional Auto Theft Task Force, of which the Westport department is a member.

Additionally, Westport police are increasing patrols throughout town to help fight the uptick.

Below are some preventative measures that residents should use to avoid becoming a victim:

• Everyone in the community should always lock their vehicles and homes. Make sure to double-check before going to bed.
• Additionally, keep exterior light on and if available utilize surveillance and/or alarm systems.
• Most importantly, call the police immediately to report any suspicious activity.

"The department strongly advises against confronting any of these suspects if you observe them on your property," Woods said. "There have been a number of incidents throughout the state where these individuals have resorted to violence when confronted."