Rampant Vehicle Thefts Addressed By Suffolk Police

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — Twelve vehicles have been stolen over 48 hours in Hauppauge and St. James, Suffolk police announced on Friday. Of the 12 vehicles, 10 have been recovered by police.

"The important thing for residents to know is that these are crimes of opportunity," Suffolk County Police Commissioner Rodney Harrison said. "None of these incidents involved damaging or breaking into the vehicle and each of the vehicles that were stolen had key fobs left in them overnight. It is important that residents stay vigilant and make sure to lock their cars, remove their keys anytime they exit the vehicle, and don’t leave valuable items unattended."

Five cars were stolen in one hour in Hauppauge on Thursday morning, police said. All five vehicles were unlocked with key fobs inside.

Seven more vehicles have since been stolen in St. James early Friday morning, police said. All seven vehicles were unlocked with key fobs inside, and each vehicle stolen in St. James has been recovered, police said.

Police are set to add more patrols to the Hauppauge and St. James areas where the thefts have happened.

"Our detectives are working around the clock to find the individuals responsible," Harrison said. "The department is asking members of the public to come forward with any information they may have."

To report a tip, residents can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-220-TIPS.”