Airbag Thefts Increasing Across Anne Arundel Co.: Police

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MD — Authorities are putting residents on alert after investigators detected an increase in car airbag thefts.

The Anne Arundel County Police Department said officers recorded a significant spike in the county's Crofton, Hanover and Laurel areas.

Officials said the airbags were specifically taken from the driver's side of targeted cars, most of which were identified as Honda Civics, Accords and HR-Vs.

Residents, according to the police department, are urged to take the following steps as precautions:

• When a garage is unavailable, park in a well-lit and visible location.
• Lock all doors and close all windows.
• Use a visible steering-wheel lock or other anti-theft device as an added deterrent.
• Consider an alarm equipped with glass-break or impact detection.
• Ensure exterior lighting and security cameras cover the vehicle.
• Do not leave valuables or charging cables visible inside the vehicle.
• Report suspicious activity promptly and do not confront suspicious individuals.
• Review home or business cameras and preserve any recordings of suspicious behavior.

Any community member who witnesses a theft in progress is urged to contact police and not confront the suspect.

Incidents can be reported by calling (410) 222-8610 or by filing a report online.