Arlington Police Ask Public To Help Reduce Auto Thefts, Larcenies

ARLINGTON, VA -- Arlington County Police issued numerous charges recently against suspects responsible for multiple larceny and auto thefts across the county, according to a police release.

During the week of Feb. 2, police filed 11 charges again Michael A. Brunner III, 18, of Washington, D.C., including felony Stolen Auto, Grand Larceny and Credit Card Larceny, as well as misdemeanor Vehicle Trespassing and Petit Larceny. In addition, ACPD also sought petitions against two juveniles for Grand Larceny Auto.

In many of these cases, suspects are targeting unlocked vehicles parked on the street in front of residences or in driveways, and either stealing the vehicles themselves or valuables left inside. During the colder months, thieves also target unattended vehicles with their engines running and keys in the ignition. Based on surveillance video, interviews with victims, and evidence, suspects are trying door handles and accessing vehicles they find unlocked.

According to ACPD, larcenies from vehicles occur in almost all of Arlington County's neighborhoods. The crimes typically take place during the night-time hours and can occur any day of the week.

To help the public to take steps to reduce crimes of opportunity in the county, ACPD has released the following crime prevention tips:

• Close and lock all windows and doors when you park. Pull on the door handle to verify it’s locked.
• Keep your garage door closed and locked. If a thief can get into a vehicle, they can have access to a garage door opener and can gain access to your home.
• Park in well-lit areas and activate exterior lights at your home.
• Never leave the area while your vehicle is running. Doing so is illegal in the Commonwealth of Virginia.
• Take all valuables out of your vehicle.
• Do not leave your keys, key fobs, or valet keys in your vehicle. This includes keys to a secondary vehicle.
• Consider installing effective home surveillance cameras. Be mindful that if a home surveillance system captures a larceny from auto in progress, they do not always provide the overwhelming evidence needed to prosecute a case.
• Participate in the #9PMRoutine and encourage your family, friends and neighbors to do so too.

ACPD asks the public to report any suspicious activity by contacting the Emergency Communications Center at 703-558-2222. If a suspect is in your vehicle, call 9-1-1 immediately and don't approach the them.