Atlantic County Shares Tips To Help Residents Prevent Vehicle Theft

MAYS LANDING, NJ — The Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office is urging residents to take nightly precautions to help prevent auto theft in neighborhoods across the county.

The message is part of a partnership with the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General's Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor and the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety.

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According to the prosecutor's office, vehicle thefts can happen in residential neighborhoods, driveways and parking areas when vehicles are left unlocked, keys or key fobs are accessible, or other security precautions are missed. The office asked residents to stay vigilant and spend a few moments each evening securing vehicles and property.

"Auto theft is not just a property crime. It can put families, neighborhoods, and the broader community at risk," said Atlantic County Prosecutor William E. Reynolds. "We are grateful for the continued support and partnership of the Office of the Attorney General, the Office of the Insurance Fraud Prosecutor, and the Division of Highway Traffic Safety. Preventing these crimes requires a shared commitment among law enforcement and the public. A few simple precautions each night can make a meaningful difference."

The office's "Secure Tonight, Safe Tomorrow" message lists several steps residents can take. Those include locking vehicle doors, even when a car is parked in a driveway or garage, and removing keys and key fobs from the vehicle and from spots near doors or windows. Residents also are encouraged to remove wallets, electronics, cash and other valuables from view or take them out of the vehicle.

The prosecutor's office also recommends turning on porch lights, motion-activated lights and other exterior lighting to improve visibility around homes and driveways. Residents should also make a quick nightly check of home, garage and vehicle doors and windows before going to bed, according to the announcement. The office said suspicious behavior or activity that may indicate criminal conduct should be reported to local law enforcement, and emergencies should be reported by calling 911.

"Public safety is a shared responsibility, and community awareness is one of our most valuable tools in preventing crime," Reynolds added. "We ask residents to take these precautions seriously, look out for their neighbors, and report suspicious activity. Our goal is to prevent crime before it happens, protect our families, and avoid the tragedies that can result when stolen vehicles are used in dangerous or criminal activity."

The Atlantic County Prosecutor's Office said it will continue working with state and local law enforcement partners to address auto theft, hold offenders accountable and promote public safety throughout Atlantic County. Residents also were encouraged to share the information with family members, neighbors and friends.