Thursday, 25th July 2019
Victoria Police in the Geelong Local Government Area have said a key focus for police was the issue of vehicle theft motivated burglaries – where a house is entered, car keys are removed and then used to steal the car.
Geelong Local Area Commander Inspector Paul Edebone said that simple things like keeping your doors locked and keeping valuable objects out of view can make a difference when it comes to opportunistic thefts.
“Since October 2018, Geelong has experienced 1,040 incidents of residential burglary,” he said. “Intelligence shows us that car theft was a motivating factor almost 2 out of every 10 of these.”
“We understand having anyone enter your home uninvited, regardless of whether there is a confrontation, is a crime and a violation of your privacy. You don’t have to hide your keys, but you should be placing them in an area that’s familiar, safe and out of sight.
The National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council estimates that more than 70 per cent of late model vehicle thefts in Victoria occur with offenders having access to the vehicle’s key.
“These thefts are almost always opportunistic, and we are asking Geelong residence to be more attentive about locking up, including locking your car even when it is in the garage. Also, be mindful about sharing dates of holidays and events on social media. It might just be the opportunity someone is looking for,” he said.
“Personal safety should always come first, however consideration is the key to deterring
opportunistic thieves,” Inspector Edebone said.
Consideration is Key was originally designed in collaboration with the National Motor Vehicle Theft Reduction Council (NMVTRC), Neighborhood Watch, Victoria Police and the Victorian Government.
If you are a victim of car theft, call Triple Zero (000). If you know something or witness something, make your confidential report to Crime Stoppers today by calling 1800 333 000 or reporting online at crimestoppersvic.com.au/report-a-crime.
Source: Crime Stoppers