Crime Prevention For your Car

Definitions

Entry into locked vehicle

Whoever intentionally enters the locked and enclosed portion or compartment of a vehicle of another without consent and with intent to steal.

Theft from Vehicle

Whoever intentionally takes and carries away, uses, transfers, conceals, or retains possession of movable property of another without the other's consent and with intent to deprive the owner permanently of possession of such property. This applies to property removed from within (car stereos) or on (wheels/tires) a vehicle.

Auto Theft

Auto Theft is when an entire car is stolen. This crime is on the rise nationwide.

Car Jacking

Car Jacking is a form of robbery where a car is taken by force. This type of robbery, while highly publicized, is actually quite rare. This crime is on the rise.

What to Do

• Keep all doors and windows locked whenever your vehicle is left unattended, especially if the vehicle is parked in your driveway overnight.
• Lock all valuables in the trunk, out of sight, when your vehicle is parked, or remove the valuables from your vehicle.
• Make sure you have plenty of gas. Ensure your tires have plenty of air and your spare tire and jack are serviceable.
• Record the make, model, and license number of your car.
• Park your car in a well-lit area, as close to your destination as possible.
• Drive in the left lane to avoid persons approaching your car from the curb. Lock your doors while you are driving.

What Not to Do

• Leave purses, wallets, cash, credit cards, auto registration or other important papers in plain view or in the glove compartment. This would also apply to valuables such as notebook computers, radar detectors, or cellular phones or firearms in your car, especially if it is parked in your driveway overnight.
• Take short-cuts through unfamiliar areas.

If you are a victim of any of these crimes call Waukesha County Communications at (262) 446-5070.