Unlocked Car Doors Invite Thieves: Annapolis Police

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Several areas of the city have seen an increase in thefts from vehicles, say Annapolis Police, most often from unlocked cars. Authorities say thieves usually enter vehicles through unlocked doors, so residents should make a habit of locking their car all the time.

The recent increase in thefts and attempted thefts have been mostly in the Yachtsmans Way, Windwhisper Lane, Forest Hills Avenue, Bricin Street, Langdon Court, Bay Ridge Avenue, Sixth Street, Washington Street, Franklin Street, and Granada Avenue areas.

Most thieves walk down the road, or through parking lots, and look to see if there is property in a vehicle and if the doors are unlocked. If your vehicle is empty and the doors are locked, thieves may move on to the next vehicle, police say. Thieves look for phones, tablets/laptops, GPS units, purses, wallets, sunglasses and prescription medication to steal.

Residents are urged to call the police if they see suspicious people walking or driving through their neighborhood. "If you see someone walking through your neighborhood in the middle of the night, they might be up to no good, and we can come and check them out," police said. "Don’t wait until the morning to call us, because if you do, the suspects will be long gone."

Some of the thefts have occurred during the day, so be alert for people checking vehicle door handles, looking into cars, or walking on to your or your neighbor’s property. And talk to your neighbors so everyone is involved in preventing crimes. Report suspicious activity immediately by calling 410-268-4141 or 9-1-1.

Image courtesy of Annapolis Police