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Crime Stoppers Corner: Lock it or lose it

Obviously, criminals are figuring out the habits of vehicle owners, resulting in the increase in thefts
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GuelphToday received the following issue of Crime Stoppers Corner for the month of September.

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Wellington County OPP has advised that there have been six cases of vehicles stolen with the keys inside in one month. While the logic of the owners or drivers may be convenience, in that they know where the keys are - and they can’t lock the keys in the car, it’s a flawed concept.

Obviously, the criminals are figuring out the habits of vehicle owners, resulting in the increase in thefts. Fortunately in these cases, the vehicles have been recovered, however, that doesn’t change the fact that a crime has taken place and it could have been prevented.

Owners are often faced with contacting police, insurance and neighbours to advise their vehicle has been taken, and start a process of registering the vehicle as stolen. It’s very inconvenient. Many would argue that it’s a shame that we live in a time when we have to lock up our vehicles, sheds and homes.

Law enforcement would argue we’ve lived in that time for longer than we care to admit. Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington (CSGW) is pleased to serve the residents of the City of Guelph and County of Wellington.

By giving the public a safe, anonymous method of reporting crime, neighbourhoods can take action and resolve criminal acts. But you could go one step further and say the public can prevent crimes from happening in the first place, by ensuring all property, including vehicles, are locked and valuables are secure. Don’t give criminals the opportunity, because they will definitely take it.

So the next time you leave your vehicle unlocked, or run into a store while your vehicle is running, think about how much of a hassle it will be to report your vehicle as stolen, and how it will feel to be a victim of crime. #lockitorloseit

Remember, call 1-800-222-TIPS or go to www.csgw.tips if you have information about crime in your community!

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