Car Thieves Steal Vehicles with Keys Left Inside: Howard County Police

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — There have been more than 150 thefts from vehicles reported in Howard County in the past month, police said Wednesday, urging residents to lock their cars and take the keys with them.

Both thefts from vehicles and vehicle thefts have increased in recent months, according to Lori Boone, spokeswoman for the Howard County Police Department.

"Often times, both of these crimes can be prevented by locking your car and taking the keys with you," Boone said. "With colder weather coming, we know people can be tempted to leave their cars running unattended to warm up, but police are urging residents not to do this."

Even for a short time, drivers are advised not to leave their vehicles unattended.

Authorities say more than 200 vehicles have been stolen in Howard County this year, and of those, at least 46 were taken using the vehicle's keys, which had been left in the ignition, elsewhere in the vehicle or inside another vehicle in the driveway.

Police offer these tips to avoid becoming a victim:

• Lock doors and windows.
• Take keys with you when leaving car.
• Put away valuables.
• Stay with vehicle if it is running.
• Park in well-lit areas or in a garage.
• Install a vehicle tracking system in case the car is stolen.
• Consider signing up for the "Watch Your Car" program through Maryland State Police, for those who do not typically drive between 1 and 5 a.m.

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