Rash Of Car Thefts Near Morristown, Police Issue Warning

MORRISTOWN, NJ — As communities near Morristown have seen an increase in vehicle thefts over the last few weeks, the Morris Township Police Department would like to remind all residents to be cautious when leaving their cars parked.

When parking outside their homes, residents are advised to remove key fobs and personal items and to keep their vehicles locked.

"We have had reports of suspicious activity and thefts from motor vehicles. The best deterrent is to lock your vehicles, day and night… If you see something suspicious, call your local police department and report it immediately," police said.

Several police agencies around Morris County have reported an increase in vehicle thefts.

Three young adults and one teen were arrested last week in Denville after being pulled over in a car with tools used to burglarize vehicles, according to police. All four were charged with conspiracy to commit burglary, while the teen was also charged with unlawful possession of a weapon.

Catalytic converter theft has also been a persistent issue in New Jersey and across the country.

According to police, catalytic converters have been stolen from residents' vehicles in Mount Olive Township in recent weeks.

Catalytic converters are part of an automobile's exhaust system and can be very valuable when resold. According to police, they were stolen because of the value of the precious metals found inside, platinum, palladium, and rhodium.

The suspects have been approaching unoccupied vehicles at night and removing catalytic converters from underneath with various hand tools. According to police, the suspects typically flee the scene shortly after.

The Morristown Department of Public Safety offered the following tips earlier this year to avoid becoming the victim of theft:

• Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you are away from it, even for "just a minute."
• Keep valuables out of sight or in the trunk. Purses, money, credit cards and cell phones in plain view only help attract thieves.
• Always close the windows and lock your car, even if it is in your driveway, garage or in front of your home or a business. Never leave key fobs in the vehicle.
• Always be alert, and report suspicious activity immediately by dialing 911.
• If your vehicle has an alarm or other anti-theft device, use it.

"If you are the victim of someone breaking into your vehicle – please do not touch anything. This allows our officers to have a better opportunity at investigating this crime and finding potential suspects," Morris Township police said.