Top Stolen Cars in Wisconsin

Early this year, Wisconsin has experienced a spike of car theft incidents that were due in part of the cold temperature. It sounds absurd, but the local District 7 police saw a 43% increase in motor vehicle thefts and many of them were perpetrated by local students. Car theft trends According to the police, the students were lured by the fact that most of those cars were left running by their car owners. Because of the cold weather, local residents were trying to heat their cars, but in that split second they left their cars vulnerable to car theft. Shellee Lubus, a police officer in District 7 was quoted in JSOnline, a local newspaper stating, “Kids that have to walk to school, they’ll walk through the alleys. They’ll find somebody that’s got their car running left unattended. It’s just a quick, easy way to get to school. They’ll leave the car within a block or two of school. Really, the main reason it’s gone up that dramatically is that people are being lazy,” she said. Most popular stolen cars in Wisconsin In 2010 the National Insurance Crime Bureau released data that revealed the cars that were favoured by thieves in the local state; 2000 Dodge Caravan 1994 Honda Accord 1995 Honda Civic 1999 Dodge Intrepid 1994 Plymouth Voyager 1994 Chevrolet full-size pickup 1997 Ford Taurus 1994 Oldsmobile Cutlass/Supreme/Ciera 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix 1995 Toyota Camry   Car theft tips   Protect yourself from being a victim of car theft and instil a vigilant awareness about your car safety. Always remember to lock your cars at all times. Don’t leave...

Carjacking in New Jersey

Did you know that in 2010, there were 359 carjacking offenses in the state of New Jersey? Out of all those incidents, there were 405 victims that included passengers and drivers. It’s an alarming trend, as not only did the numbers increased from the previous years, most of the carjacking incidents involve the use of firearms.  New Jersey carjacking by the numbers Here’s an overview of the state of carjacking in New Jersey: –          88% of the stolen vehicles were registered in the state –          BMW made up the 11% of the stolen vehicles –          The majority of the incidents occurred at a residential area –          The most popular month for carjacking incidents was in December –          73% of the stolen vehicles were recovered Car theft trends Carjacking is just one of the many forms of car theft that can be found in New Jersey. Just recently, the state was part of the car theft ring that was apprehended by local officials. The suspects were found to be guilty of stealing 108 cars that were mostly luxury cars that they had shipped and sold to shady brokers. Car safety tips Indifference is the last thing that you should feel regarding auto theft. Though, in most cases, a large percentage of people forget that auto theft results from opportunistic situations. Vigilance is important in keeping your cars safe. Always remember to lock your doors, take your keys out and never leave any valuables behind. Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in hand, you can help keep your city safe by placing the copyright and trademark protected signs and...

Arkansas Motor Company Owes Car Safety Features for Car Retrieval

A Conway motor company can now release a sigh of relief after local police had successfully retrieved their stolen car. Potter Motors President Gary Potter almost lost 3000 worth of accessories and two cars when car thieves broke into his company. But as luck might have it, the cars were equipped with a GPS tracking device, and Potter successfully traced the location of the stolen vehicles. Car theft statistics in Arkansas The news story above is just one of the few car theft incidents that occur in Arkansas. With 5,544 reported car theft cases in 2010, the state has its fair share of car theft victims. Arkansas police has shared that car theft is usually a crime of opportunity. Wherein most motor vehicle theft incidents occurs because car owners have neglected to practice safety techniques with their cars. Car theft prevention tips It might not be a guarantee, but by instilling car theft prevention techniques you are giving your car a chance of safety. If you can afford it, you can make use of state of the art car safety add-ons, like a GPS tracking device or a locking system that can deter a thief, even if it would be for just a few more minutes. However, if money is tight, don’t worry, car safety can cost you nothing and can be as simple as following certain tips. Car safety can be as simple and basic as employing common sense. Remember to always lock your doors. Keep an eye on your belongings, and take them out of your car when you park. Take your keys from its ignition, and...

The State of Motor Vehicle Theft in Mississippi

You might want to think long and hard before you commit car theft in Mississippi. Motor Vehicle Theft in the state of Mississippi is a known felony, and it can cost up to $10,000 fine with a probable 10 years prison sentence. With 5,360 car theft incidents in 2010, it is not something that can easily be shrugged off by local residents. Car theft incidents in Mississippi Recently, there had been numerous cases of auto theft incidents in the state. A couple of months ago, a luxury car theft ring were busted, and they are believed to have been responsible for more than 20 luxury car thefts in the area. Their criminal activities dates back to December 2011 and they were actually attempting to leave town before local authorities apprehended their getaway car. Another recent car theft incident in Mississippi involved two Escatawpa men, who were charged with auto theft and credit card fraud. Fortunately, the local police immediately apprehended the suspects in just 30 minutes after they drove off with the stolen car. Car theft prevention tips Save yourself from the aftermath of being an auto theft victim by being vigilant about your car safety. Always make sure that your locks are working. Make sure that each of your car doors is securely locked. Never leave out your keys in its ignition. Look around and check if you have any valuables behind, and take them with you at all times. Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in hand, you can help keep your city safe by placing the copyright and trademark protected signs and designs on your...

Car Theft Prevention Tips in Connecticut

Car theft in Connecticut might not be at its peak, but it’s still a recurring problem for local residents. From 7,461 car theft incidents in 2009, it has decreased to 6,707 in 2010. The motor vehicle theft reports might be lower compared to other states; however this doesn’t mean that Connecticut residents have been free of car theft incidents. Car theft in Connecticut Just recently, a local resident has been charged with second degree larceny. Fortunately the state police had successfully tracked his whereabouts and he was apprehended for his criminal act. It must have been the final straw in his luck, as it has been found that the suspect had eight outstanding arrest warrants for failure to appear in court. Car theft prevention tips To ease your mind and to help protect your cars, the Hartford police offered a series of car theft prevention tips: –          Close all windows lock all doors and take the keys with you.  In Connecticut, almost 25 percent of stolen vehicles had the keys in them. –          Never hide a second set of keys anywhere on or inside your vehicle.  Thieves often rummage through a car before taking it.  They WILL find a hidden key. –          Never leave your vehicle running, even if you will only be gone for a minute, or warming it up in your driveway; vehicles are commonly stolen at convenience stores, gas stations, driveways, and ATMs. –           Park in well-lighted areas.  Over 70 percent of vehicle thefts occur at night. –          Park in attended or heavy traffic lots. –          Do not become complacent because you drive an older-model vehicle.  Older...

North Dakota Enjoys a Low Car Theft Rate

Luck has nothing to do with it, but nevertheless it has been reported that North Dakota enjoys a relatively low car theft rate. From 913 car theft rate in 2009, it has decreased even further to 859. If that’s not enough, it seems that the state is also fortunate to have the lowest unemployment rate in the country. North Dakota boasts a thriving economy With only an unemployment rate below 5%, the state’s 700, 000 residents are comforted by their booming agriculture industry. This must be one of the reasons why crime incidents, such as motor vehicle thefts rarely occurs, as most of the local residents are living comfortably in North Dakota. Car theft still occurs However, even though it’s a relatively low rate, car theft still occurs in North Dakota. Early this year, there has been a series of car theft incidents that took advantage of the new year celebrations. Most of the car theft incidents had occurred because the car owners neglected to take off the keys from their ignition. There had been more than one instance where the car theft occurred in the victim’s home. Prevent car theft The numerous car theft incidents should serve as a telling story for all of us. Most of the incidents were due to basic car safety negligence. It is necessary for every car owner to be mindful about the safety of their cars, and instil a series of car safety techniques. Make sure that your car doors are always locked. Never leave your car keys in the ignition. Take away any valuable inside your cars. Help spread awareness in your...

Car Cloning Victimizes Local Vermont Residents

The term cloning is no longer exclusively synonymous to biological cloning, as it is now a prevalent cause of concern for local Vermont residents. It seems that there have been a number of people that has been victimized by car cloning. Car cloning is the instance where a stolen car’s VIN has been forged to be recreated as a new and legitimate VIN from a similar model. Dispute over local dealership and buyers Just recently, two buyers had the misfortune of being a victim of car cloning. They had purchased their vehicles straight off Mark’s Motors on Putney Road, a local dealership chain in Vermont. Without knowing that they bought stolen vehicles that possessed a tampered VIN, they automatically registered their cars in their respective home states; they found that they had bought stolen cars. Both the local dealership and the victimized buyers have cried foul, and are placing blame on each other. The two victims have stated that it’s the responsibility of the local dealership to ascertain that their products are 100% authentic before putting them in public sale. However, the owner of the dealership vehemently refuses that he has any fault for the whole ordeal, as the cars had legitimate VIN. Car theft prevention techniques can prevent car cloning Car cloning can only happen after the occurrence of car theft. To avoid buying a tampered car, make sure that you have checked the car’s history before purchasing. To avoid car cloning all together, make sure to instil proper car theft prevention techniques. Make sure that your car doors are always locked. Take out your keys from its...

Car Theft Prevention Tips in Tennessee

Did you know that for every 100,000 cars there is an average of 233 stolen motor vehicles in Tennessee? Although the car theft rate has decreased from 15,016 in 2009 to 14,835 car theft incidents in 2010, motor vehicle theft remains to be a cause of concern for local residents. Car theft prevention tips For Tennessee residents, and for everyone who wishes to keep their cars safe and sound, it is but necessary to be vigilant about the safety of your cars. You might be surprised to find out that car safety tips echoes basic yet effective safety precautions. Here is an overview of the recommended car safety habits of an average car user: –          Lock your cars Yes, it’s as basic as that. A lot of car theft reports occurs because car owners have left their cars vulnerable to car theft. –          Take out your keys from its ignition Another cause of most car thefts are incidents where car owners have left their keys in their car ignition. This makes it so much easier for car thieves to run away with your cars, so make sure to take your keys out of the ignition. –          Never leave any valuables behind Your car doors might be locked, and you might have taken your keys from the ignition, but the view of your expensive gadgets might entice passing car thieves to break open your car and steal your possessions and car accessories. Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in hand, you can help keep your city safe by placing the copyright and trademark protected signs and designs on...

Top Stolen Vehicles in Missouri

Auto theft remains to be a big problem in the state of Missouri. The Missouri Highway Patrol has released the final tally of motor vehicle theft incidents in 2011, and it turns out that there was a noticeable increase from the previous year. With 15, 826 car theft reports, Missouri yet again face an expected increase in incidents with their growing population. Top stolen vehicles in Missouri The report published the top stolen vehicles in Missouri, and they are as follows: Ford Taurus Pontiac Grand Prix Honda Accord Dodge Intrepid Chevrolet Impala Oldsmobile Cutlass Dodge Stratus Pontiac Grand Am Chevrolet Monte Carlo Chevrolet Malibu   Common target cities It’s been said that local car thieves favour Missouri cities such as St. Louis and Kansas, and they predict an upshot of numbers in Mid-Missouri in part of their population density. However, Sergeant Tim Timmin of the Missouri Highway was quoted by a local newspaper (KOMU 8) and offered his piece on the growing threat. “Thieves, especially auto thieves, are inherently lazy, so as long as you take the proper steps to keep your car locked up and the criminals out, they will move on to the next car. The problem is that not everybody locks their car,” he said. Car theft prevention tips It may not be a full proof guarantee, but at least by adhering to simple yet effective car safety tips, you’re giving your car a fighting chance. Remember to always lock you cars at all times. Never leave your keys in its ignition. Hide your valuables away from sight. Help spread awareness in your city With this...

Iowa Car Theft Crime Rate

Motor vehicle theft in Iowa remains to be a fluctuating cause of concern. In a span of a decade, the state has seen an increase of car theft incidents that in time would plummet to a lower ratio per resident. Just in 2009 Iowa had 3,904 car theft incidents that soon decreased to 3,776 car theft incidents in the year that followed.  State-wide car theft ratio Overall, it seems that the United States is currently enjoying a decrease of car theft rates. According to various reports, this trend was probably due to the fact that most new cars are now equipped with high end security features.  These security features comes as far as completely shutting down a stolen car that might deter the car thieves from driving to a further location. Car theft incidents is still a normal occurrence Even though there’s a declining trend in motor vehicle thefts, this doesn’t mean that local states are completely free of car theft attempts. Sure, most of the cars are sporting state of the art safety features, but did you know that most car theft incidents are due to lax car owners? Archived car theft reports reflected that owners are usually victims of their own carelessness. A huge percentage of carjacked cars are due to improperly locked doors and windows. It’s been noted that car theft incidents usually occur in easiest areas, where local police are near non-existent, or the residents are too trusting for their own good. Car theft prevention tips Keep your car safe by employing simple yet basic car security tips. Do remember to always lock your cars...

Car Safety Tips in Nebraska

Nebraska has an average car theft rate of 197 for every 100, 000 cars. Though the numbers fluctuate every year, the state saw an increase of car theft incidents in 2010, whereas it experienced 3,614 car theft incidents, compared to just over 3,509 in 2009. The numbers might seem harmless, but don’t forget that auto theft appears in various forms. It’s a criminal act that can happen anywhere, and anytime. In the case of carjacking, it can happen in a blink of an eye. Safety first Just take this real life incident as a cautionary tale. A mother left her son in her car, while she went into a convenience store for a few minutes. In that short span of time, thieves had broken in and drove away with her car while her son was still inside. Although the car was not recovered, fortunately the little boy was released by the car thieves, 10 miles from the crime of origin. Protect yourself from car theft Incidents like this should help motivate us in keeping a rigid set of protection for our cars and our loved ones. The story above should serve as a glaring answer, on why we shouldn’t leave our kids or other loved ones with a running car. Car thieves are always on the lookout for cars that have lax security features and they are more than happy in taking advantage of this. The best car safety tips are basic in structure. Simple things like always locking your car doors, taking out your valuables and hiding your keys safely can make the world of difference in keeping your...

Auto Theft Prevention Program in Minnesota

How’s this for a slice of reality? Did you know that there are 23 cars stolen daily in Minnesota? In just over a year, there was a total of 8,400 reported car theft incidents in the local state. This amounted to a cumulative total of $21.3 million in stolen value. Upon hearing this, the Minnesota Department of Commerce has released $3.8 million to help combat this rising threat. “Every year, auto theft impacts the lives and finances of thousands of Minnesotans, and steals from wallets of every consumer in the form of higher insurance premiums,” said Commissioner Mike Rothman. What can you do to prevent auto theft? Auto theft can be a costly nuisance. Aside from missing property, you will be facing insurance claims and official proceedings to move forward with your case. Which is why, as much as possible, you should prioritize establishing a fluid and rigid safety measures for your cars. Technology can help deter auto theft If your budget can allow it, tracking devices such as GPS systems can help you especially in terms of recovering your car. With a built in GPS device, you will have a better chance of getting a location and a possible identification of suspected car thieves. Basic safety precaution However, if you can’t afford to install expensive gadgets for your cars, instilling basic safety precaution is the next best thing. Simple tips like taking your keys from its ignition, locking your doors and windows and removing valuable items from your cars can make a world of difference. Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in hand, you can...

Idaho Motor Vehicle Theft Trends

Motor vehicle theft in Indiana is described as the act of theft of a self propelled vehicle that primarily runs on a land surface. This includes motorcycles, scooters, snowmobiles, recreational vehicles and industrial equipments. In this definition, the law prohibits people from the act of joyriding, as it is also a form of motor vehicle theft. Car theft trends in Idaho Automobiles make up the majority of the stolen motor vehicles in Idaho. With an 81.7 percentage distribution in 2011, it takes the lead as the choice target for local thieves. Surprisingly, the data also shows that car theft incidents occurs the most at the victim’s local residence. It is also worthy to note that in the span of five years, there is a significant decline in car theft incidents in the state. With 2201 cases in 2007, the numbers decreased to 1278 in 2011. Avoid being a victim of car theft As soothing as the concluded data might sound, it is but wiser to always be vigilant about the safety of your cars. By employing certain car security measures, you will be saving yourself from insurance nuisance and money woes. Hide your keys Before you leave your cars, make sure that you’ve hidden your keys properly. Never leave them hanging in your car ignition. And please avoid putting a second set of keys inside your car. Lock your doors Never walk away without first checking if you’ve properly locked your cars. Make sure to check each car doors and windows before leaving the parking lot. Take your things Leaving your expensive gadgets in your car might lead to...

Car Theft Incidents on the Rise in Hawaii

How safe is your car? It has been reported that West Hawaii has been experiencing a surge of auto theft incidents, in which six motor vehicles has been stolen in the span of two weeks. According to local police, the most popular targets are Honda sedans and Toyota Tacomas. This news isn’t that surprising since auto theft has been on the rise in Hawaii for the last two years. In 2010, there had been 5,100 reported car theft cases, an increase from the reported 4,857 in 2009. Tips to prevent auto theft Don’t be part of the car theft statistic and employ a stringent safety regiment when it comes to the safety of your car. Aside from buying helpful gadgets, like a GPS tracking system or a car alarm that can help deter a thief, you should also remember these simple basic tips. Take your keys from the ignition Did you know that 13% of stolen vehicles had its keys tucked in their ignition? Make sure to take away you car keys right after you’ve properly parked it. Lock you doors and windows It seems so basic; however, it’s one of the major slip ups that most car thieves take advantage of. Almost half of car theft cases was a result of improperly locked cars. Park in well lit areas Make sure that you seek parking spaces that has a lot of foot traffic. Try and asses your location, and pick parking spots that are well lit and has ample security. Don’t leave your car unattended Never, ever leave your car running unattended even for just a split second....

Defining Vehicle Theft in Alaska

Vehicle theft is defined as an act of driving, towing or taking of a property that is owned by another individual. For anyone who attempts this criminal act, they are liable to face heavy repercussions, as vehicle theft in the first degree is a class C felony in Alaska. Car theft rate in Alaska Alaska is fortunate enough to experience a relatively low rate of motor vehicle theft activities. With 2,618 car theft cases in 2001, the number has decreased to 1,619 in 2010. This is good news for the local residents; however the state isn’t exactly safe from car theft attempts. Incidents in Alaska Just recently there has been a reported car theft incident in Glacier Highway, whereas a Subaru station wagon was stolen. Although it was later retrieved by the local police, the cars’ seatbelts had been cut and damaged. Another one of note, although the crime of origin was a robbery spree, was of a man convicted of a series of house break-ins, and as a means to escape, stole his victim’s cars in the process. Prevent auto theft It’s best to remember that auto theft is a crime that can happen anywhere, and anytime. Being part of the safest state doesn’t equate to 100% protection.  Make sure that you remain vigilant when it comes to protecting your car. Don’t forget to lock your doors and windows. Take out your keys from its ignition whenever you leave it unattended. Take away your valuables, and make sure that you’re parked in a well lit space. Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in hand, you...

Alabama Police Offers Tips in Preventing Car Theft

Local Alabama police provided an insight on the surge of car theft rates in the state. It turns out local residents have been very lax about their car security, even going as far as leaving their car running whenever they do a quick stop at various shops. Sergeant Johnny Williams of the Birmingham police was quoted saying, “With the extremely cold temperatures, we have had a number of vehicle thefts as a result of citizens allowing vehicles to run in an effort to warm the car while the vehicle is unattended,” “In a large number of cases, citizens leave their keys in their vehicle as they go into a convenience store to make a purchase or pay for gas. Remember, ‘This is not Mayberry!'” As a result, the Birmingham police released helpful tips that can help prevent car theft incidents:   Never leave your vehicle running and unattended while in your home or in a store. This has become one of the most common forms of stolen vehicles. Park in a well lit area at night or when shopping. Equip your vehicle with an anti-theft device. Close all windows and lock all doors. Keep your tag number and vehicle identification number in your wallet. Don’t leave valuables in plain view. Don’t leave GPS mounts attached to windows. After shopping, don’t leave packaging of expensive gifts in the front of your residence for garbage pick-up. If possible, break down the packaging and place it in garbage bags or cans. You can also transport packaging to area land fields for disposal.   Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in...

Learning about the Different Types of Car Theft in Pennsylvania

In a span of a decade, Pennsylvania has experienced an impressive decline in their auto theft cases. From a staggering number of 48,736 in 1996, the state only had 16,669 reported car theft cases in 2010. Although it is a feat worth applauding, it should be noted that auto theft is still a major problem in Pennsylvania. Luxury car theft ring gets busted Just a few months ago, an international car theft ring was found to be guilty of stealing cars worth more than $2.3 million. Their criminal activities spanned three states and aside from Pennsylvania, the car theft ring had criminal activities in New York and New Jersey. It was discovered that they targeted car dealerships in Pennsylvania, whereas they swiped car keys and drove off with a number of cars just when the service department had begun their daily operations. Different types of car theft Swiping car keys is just one of the methods that car thieves employ in their activities. There are various car theft methods that we all should know and note when we go about our daily routines. One such type that is popular to car thieves is carjacking. Carjacking is defined as the forceful theft of an occupied vehicle. In cases like this, carjacking usually happens for just a couple of seconds, wherein the thief takes advantage of the driver’s stunned reaction. You can protect yourself from carjacking by locking your car doors when you’re driving. Make sure to check your surroundings before you get inside your car, as parking lots are popular target locations for carjacking incidents. Chop shop is another type of...

Defining Grand Theft Auto in Oklahoma

These days, grand theft auto is more known as a popular video game than a serious crime. However, this shouldn’t blindside you of the fact that grand theft auto comes with heavy repercussions, especially in Oklahoma. Local statutes in Oklahoma defines grand theft auto as the act of stealing anything that is worth more than $500. Since most cars would have a value of more than $500, most motor vehicle theft cases would fall into this category.  The law further states that these “automotive driven vehicle” can be any of the following: Aircraft Automobiles Construction equipment Farm equipment Grand auto theft penalties An Oklahoma resident who had been found guilty of grand auto theft charges are known to face harsh penalties. Once convicted, a person might face a minimum of 3 years in prison, and even up to 20 years. Aside from that, an individual is expected to pay at least three times the amount of the items that they’ve stolen, not exceeding $500,000. Keep your car safe from auto theft Avoid being a victim of auto theft by safeguarding your car and its valuables at all times. If you can afford it, equip your cars with state of the art safety devices. However, if you’re short on cash, you can always instil basic common sense for your car’s safety. Simple tips like taking out your keys from its ignition, hiding your valuables from view and locking your car doors and windows can help keep your car safe from car thieves. Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in hand, you can help keep your city safe...

New Hampshire Enjoys a Low Crime Rate

The numbers are in, and surprisingly New Hampshire rounds off the list of states that has a low crime rate activity. New Hampshire is joined by New York, Idaho, North Dakota and South Dakota with the state with the lowest average crime rate in the nation. It’s been noted that this trend might be due to the fact that New Hampshire is known to be a state that duly holds suspects and criminals with proper repercussions. Car theft incidents still prevalent in New Hampshire However, this doesn’t mean that New Hampshire is completely crime free. Certain cities such as Claremont and Lebanon are reported to have a high percentage of property crimes and violent crimes. Motor vehicle thefts still occurs in the state, and just recently the Rochester police arrested two New Hampshire residents who were caught selling accessories from stolen cars. Protect yourself from car thefts Protect yourself from being a victim of car theft by employing stringent car safety measures. Your best course of action is instilling common sense in your everyday routine. Simple things like locking your cars, keeping your car keys safe and taking away your valuables will give you an advantage. It is also wise to invest in electronic gadgets, or even simple but reliable car theft prevention items. You can simply do a quick search on the Internet and look for trusted car safety resources. There are plenty of options out there, so if you can afford them, it is wiser to perform preventive measures than dealing with insurance woes after a car theft incident. Help spread awareness in your city With this...

July 4th Vehicle Safety Watch in Maine

Did you know that July and August are the most popular months for car theft incidents? The FBI further stresses that the July 4th holiday has the most recorded car theft attempts in all the national holidays. This should serve as a warning to everyone who might be too preoccupied with the holiday festivities. Maine’s crime rate is on the rise This is one more thing that Maine residents should worry about, because just recently the FBI published a report that stated that their crime rate rose to 5.4 percent compared to the previous year. They cited the popular use of prescription drugs as one of the reasons that might have contributed to this trend. In a report published by Kennebec Journal, Portland Police Chief Michael Sauschuck stresses, “Anybody in law enforcement will tell you substance abuse issues drive crime statistics, both alcohol and drugs, while cocaine is still the major drug problem in southern Maine, prescription drugs just really blew through the entire state and are causing major, major problems for entire counties of folks,” he said. Maine Crime Statistics: Arson – 6% increase Burglaries – 10% increase Motor Vehicle Thefts- 5% increase Vehicle safety tips It’s important to keep a presence of mind when it comes to the safety of your motor vehicles. Most of the time, a basic safety precaution can be your best guard against car theft attempts. Simple things like taking out your keys from its ignition, parking in well lit areas and locking all your doors and windows can help save your car from being stolen. Help spread awareness in your city With...

The State of Vehicle Theft in Louisiana

Sometimes, motor vehicle theft is not solely a property crime. In most cases, stolen cars are part of a bigger criminal goal. Established car theft rings would often use their stolen cars as a means for their various criminal activities. A most prominent example of this is their proclivity of running a “chop shop,” as professional thieves are known to resell certain car parts and expensive accessories to the black market. Louisiana in numbers Which is why it is hardly surprising that according to the 2010 Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Uniform Crime Report that nationwide, there were 737,142 motor vehicle thefts. In Louisiana, they shouldered 9,893 of the reported number, which was a 14.6% decrease from the previous year. Cities that had a high percentage of motor theft cases: New Orleans – 2,410 motor vehicle thefts Shreveport – 526 motor vehicle thefts Lafayette – 290 motor vehicle thefts Guard yourself from car theft Car theft might not just solely be a property crime, but it doesn’t minimize the fact that it’s a crime that can happen to anyone. No matter where you live, you can easily be a victim of motor vehicle thieves. Give yourself a fighting chance, and employ a strict practice of basic car safety techniques. Basic car safety stems from using common sense. Don’t forget to always take out your car keys from its ignition. Never leave your cars unlocked. Always check the inside of your car, and take out valuables that might be an easy target for car thieves. Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in hand, you can help keep your...

Wyoming’s Auto Theft Rate

Location is one of the major reasons that Wyoming experiences a fairly low number of motor vehicle crimes. Auto theft has been an isolated property crime since the state is situated away from the international border and major urban areas. In 2010 it had 737,142 auto theft case reports, a 7.4% decrease from 2009. Cheyenne’s motor vehicle rate Although Wyoming experienced a decrease in auto theft cases, however its local city Cheyenne saw an increase of motor vehicle thefts. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), Cheyenne ranked 207 in 2009 after placing 236 in 2008. Wyoming’s Top Ten Stolen Vehicles in 2010 (NICB) In Wyoming, automobiles are found to be a popular target for car thieves. 2008 Dodge Ram 1997 Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size) 1999 GMC Pickup (Full Size) 1994 Ford F150 Series/Pickup 1989 Ford F250 Series/Pickup 1997 Ford Explorer 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier 1999 Toyota Camry 1999 Chevrolet Suburban 1996 Ford F350 Series/Pickup Car safety tips Just because your state has been reported to be relatively safe from auto theft incidents, this shouldn’t stop you from instilling safety precautions for your cars. Remember to always hide your keys properly. Make sure that you remove your keys from the ignition at all times. Thoroughly scan your car, and lock your doors and windows. Take and remove any valuable items from your car whenever you park it in a parking space. Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in hand, you can help keep your city safe by placing the copyright and trademark protected signs and designs on your property or in your area. You can also make custom sign...

Tips for Preventing Auto Theft in Virginia

Auto theft is defined as the unlawful taking or stealing of a motor vehicle. A motor vehicle can be any type of vehicle that has the capacity to be driven, and it includes motorcycles, trucks, buses and automobiles. Virginia has a fluctuating history with auto theft. It has experienced its peak in 1991 wherein the state had 21,284 offenses, and with a string of implemented auto theft prevention measures, it has fortunately dropped to 10,394 in 2010. Seasonal crime Auto theft may not have a permanent pattern, but apparently in Virginia, car theft cases tends to have a higher count during the months of May through August. According to a report, there are 37% car theft incidents during these months. Tips to avoid car theft Keep your car safe from car thieves and take note of these tips provided by Beat the Traffic: Don’t leave your car unlocked Never leave your car running Never leave valuables Park in high-traffic Don’t leave the registration or Title in Your Car If possible, have your windows tinted Copy your license plate and vehicle information (VIN) Install an audible alarm system and a visible anti-theft device Consider installing a GPS tracking system Park With Your Wheels Turned Toward the Curb Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in hand, you can help keep your city safe by placing the copyright and trademark protected signs and designs on your property or in your area. You can also make custom sign donations to your local police department and they will disperse them to businesses and in parks and recreation areas. Hide Lock Take started...

Montana Ranks 45th in Car Theft Study

In a recent state-wide car theft study, Montana came in at 45th with a 1,748 car theft statistic score. It definitely pales in comparison to California with 242, 693 cases; as they unfortunately led the list that had the most car theft incidents in the United States. Auto theft is still prevalent in Montana Although the numbers are pretty low compared to other states, Montana still has their fair share of auto theft incidents. Just these past few months, there had been random reported car theft incidents around the local state. This month, a car was stolen from a used-car blowout sale. It turns out that the keys were haphazardly placed in the car’s visor that made it easier for the car thief to drive away with the car. Fortunately, a concerned citizen had reported the stolen car, and the suspect has been arrested. Another car theft incident occurred early this May; however this one resulted to a car theft chase. The suspect was believed to be the perpetrator of a series of car burglaries in the Missoula, Montana area. The suspect was identified as Steven S. McCann and was charged with 16 different cases of trespass to vehicles. How to protect yourself from auto theft Even if it seems like you live in a state that has a minimal reported car theft rate, this shouldn’t encourage you to leave your car in a vulnerable state. You should always employ stringent car safety measures at all times. Always remember to maintain a presence of mind about your whereabouts. Keep your doors and windows locked. Remove your keys from your...

Rhode Island Car Theft Rates

There’s a 1 in 39 chance that you might become a victim of a property crime in Rhode Island. With a population of 1,052,567, out of 1,000 residents, there are 2,399 reported car theft cases. To avoid a series of regrettable loss and nuisance, it’s a trend worth noting. Young criminals on the rise In two separate reports, the car theft was both attempted by students. Back in 2011, a college student was apprehended as an accomplice to a car theft incident. The suspect was identified as Zhengpeng Hu. He was charged with kidnapping after he allegedly stuffed a woman in a suitcase after tying her up. A few months ago, two teens were charged with possession of a stolen vehicle. They swiped the victim’s car keys that were lying in an Old Mountain Lanes table. After a short chase, Angelo Fraley and Alexander X. Blunt were arrested by the Narragansett Police. Car safety measures Did you know that most car theft suspects are known to be amateurs in the field? Most of them don’t have a set of rules when it comes to their mode of operation. This means that they will likely strike cars that they think are more vulnerable than most. These might range from owners that have left their windows open, or cars parked in an area that has no foot traffic or security in place. Car safety tips You can easily avoid being a car theft victim. Make sure that you check your car thoroughly before you leave it in a parking spot. Pick a location that has a lot of foot traffic. Take...

Complicated Car Theft Schemes in Indiana

With a state population of 6,483,802, Indiana has 13,118 of recorded motor vehicle theft incidents. A feat considering that their car theft rate has decreased after experiencing a peak of 27, 023 in 1995. Although this might be a cause of celebration, auto theft still remains a threat to Indiana residents. Just recently, a man was indicted in a complicated car theft case that started in 2006. Complex fraud and theft scheme For more than six years, George Robey has operated a complex fraud and theft scheme that largely affected local dealerships. It was reported that Robey would often visit local car dealerships, and after eyeing his target car, he would take them for a test drive and switch fake keys and present legal documents to steal the cars right under the establishment’s place. After stealing 17 cars, he was finally arrested and is now facing a very long prison sentence. Auto theft is a community problem Aside from profit loss, the complex fraud and theft scheme perpetrated by Robey created an influx of problems that drove up the cost of their remaining cars and their insurance premiums. As much as it seems that auto theft can be seen as a solitary loss, it affects a lot of people, especially in this particular case. In instances like this, it’s important that we are able to find out if the cars that we’ll be purchasing are free of criminal history. Have it checked thoroughly with the right people, so that you’ll be sure that you won’t be a victim of complicated auto theft schemes. Help spread awareness in your city...

An Overview of Georgia’s Car Theft Rates

Dubbed as the “Empire State of the South,” Georgia fares fairly well in terms of auto theft incidents. After having 43,411 incidences of car theft in 2005, the numbers had dwindled to 32,535 in 2009. Even though the local authorities and special anti-theft campaigns have helped create a 23% difference in Georgia’s car theft statistics, auto theft remains to be a major problem for local residents. Chop shop poses as an auto repair shop Auto theft still remains to be a problem for the state of Georgia. Just last year the Georgia State Patrol and Atlanta Police Department uncovered a local business that posed as an auto repair shop that stripped down stolen cars. They were discovered after their clients had complained that they received their cars in the same condition- in a state of disrepair. Know the pulse of your local neighbourhood Prevent yourself from being a victim of shady local businesses by looking up their business history and workmanship. If you feel that something isn’t right, you might be on the right track. Make sure that you’re always aware of on-going criminal trends in your locales, so that you can be more careful when you go about your daily routine. Keep your car safe with basic safety precaution Save your car from being a chop shop subject when you employ a layered security protection. Safety starts with being vigilant, which is why it is important to keep a presence of mind whenever you’re out in the world. Make sure that you’re aware of the auto theft hot spots in your local cities, so that you can avoid...

Car Theft Rates in South Dakota Fluctuates

From 589 car theft cases to 795 car theft incidents, South Dakota has its fair share of auto theft incidents. During the period of 1980 -2005, it has experienced fluctuating numbers, and had its peak of vehicle thefts during 1974- 1980. Car theft spree in Dakota Just last year, local officials had arrested three suspects that were responsible for a car theft spree in South Dakota. The suspects were identified as Christopher Zephier Jr & Derik LaFromboise, who were both 18 years of age. Christopher’s mother, Stella Zephier was cited as an accomplice to the crime. Protect yourself from being a car theft victim Even if you live in a neighbourhood that has fluctuating car theft incidents, this shouldn’t deter you from establishing safety measures for your car. It has been reported that car thefts are usually performed by amateurs, more so than professional car theft rings. With this in mind, careful safety precautions make it harder for them to steal your car. Hide. Lock. Take The first thing that you should remember about car safety is the location of your keys. Safely remove it from your ignition at all times, and take it with you when you leave. Lock your car windows and doors. Take all of your valuable items whenever you park your car in parking spaces. Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in hand, you can help keep your city safe by placing the copyright and trademark protected signs and designs on your property or in your area. You can also make custom sign donations to your local police department and they will disperse them...