Suffolk Officials Warn Of Increase In Car Thefts

HAUPPAUGE, NY — Suffolk officials on Thursday warned residents to be more careful and lock their cars in light of an uptick in car thefts this Christmas season.

Officers have responded to eight vehicle thefts in which the cars were left unlocked or with the key fob was left inside, said Acting Police Commissioner Risco Mention-Lewis.

"While vehicle theft is down 6.2%, we still must be very vigilant,"she said. "Please keep your key and your key fob on your person and lock your cars."

"If your are going into a store to make a purchae, a minute it all a thief needs," she added.

Police are expected to continue an enhanced presence at shopping malls and centers to ensure public safety as well as increased patrols to focus on driving while intoxicated ensure residents are driving responsibly.

County Executive Steve Bellone said that many people leave their keys inside their car, sometimes visible in the ignition or cupholder or on the seat.

"This allows car thieves to easily enter the vehicle and take off," he said.

Bellone noted that the holidays can be good time to get together with family, but they can also be stressful.

"You don't need this to be added to your stress, so take the simple precautions," he added.