Uptick In Thefts From Cars In Nanuet

NANUET, NY — Clarkstown police are urging Nanuet residents to take better precautions with their cars and the items they leave in their cars. That's because there's been an uptick in car larcenies and other property crimes in the Nanuet area.

The crimes are primarily in the Hamlets and Avalon Gardens, Clarkstown police said on Facebook. Since Nov. 1, there have been 8 reported larcenies from motor vehicles, police said.

Police have increased patrols in the area and are actively investigating.

In addition, they said, "we can’t emphasize enough the measures that we need all residents to do to help us reduce these crimes."

Here are their tips:

• Don’t leave your car unlocked, most of the larcenies have been from unlocked vehicles.
• Avoid parking in areas that are poorly lit or places that are not immediately seen by the public. This will not only keep you safe when you exit the car, it will also help keep your car safe because thieves tend to avoid areas that are highly visible.
• Install an audible alarm system and a visible anti-theft device
• Car thieves tend to avoid cars with alarms or anti-theft devices because they attract attention when they go off.
• Don’t leave valuable personal property in your car
• The best way to attract a thief is to leave your purse or another high-value item in a highly visible area of your car. If you must put something of value in your car, keep it in the trunk or under the seats, where it is not visible to others.

If you are wary of the safety of your car or see someone loitering around the parking lot, it’s best to park somewhere else and call the Clarkstown Police Department immediately.

If you think that you may be a victim of any larceny, report the incident, regardless of how small the missing items may have been.

"In order for us to track these cases we need to have as much data as possible," police said. "If you see someone in your neighborhood acting suspiciously please call 911 and let us investigate."

Photo via google maps

Poster via Clarkstown Police Department