Jul 4, 2012 | News
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...Jul 3, 2012 | News
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...Jul 2, 2012 | News
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...Jun 29, 2012 | News
With 163, 837 cases, the state of Texas experienced the highest recorded car theft cases in 1991. After more than a decade, the numbers had plummeted and in 2010 there were only 68, 220 reported cases, a 58% drop from previous years. Problematic auto theft cases It might have been a dramatic drop, but Texas still belongs to the list of states that has the most auto theft cases. In reality, a vehicle is stolen every 8 minutes. Just in 2010, the total cost of the stolen vehicles was more than half a million dollars. According to “Watch Your Car,” here are the top stolen vehicles in Texas in 2010: 1 Ford Pickup 2 Chevrolet Pickup 3 Dodge Pickup 4 Chevrolet Tahoe 5 Honda Civic 6 Honda Accord 7 GMC Pickup 8 Toyota Camry 9 Ford Taurus 10 Chevrolet Impala Help protect your cars There are thousands of cars that are stolen in Texas, and there are also a high number of car burglaries in the state. It might seem like a one in a million chance, but the truth is, property crimes can happen to anyone. Keep in mind that auto theft and car burglaries mostly hinge on opportunistic factors, like choosing poor parking locations and misplaced car keys. Make sure that you practice basic safety precaution. Simple things like taking out your keys from its ignition, hiding your valuables from view and locking your doors and windows can make a world of difference. 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...Jun 28, 2012 | News
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...Jun 27, 2012 | News
The reasons why people commit car crimes may vary from trivial inclination to more complicated webs of layered criminal activities. This sort of fluctuation is reflective on why there are some states that experience a higher count of auto theft than the rest. In Ohio, it differs from time to time; although that doesn’t mean that it hasn’t been a primal location for notorious auto theft rings. Stolen cars gets stripped for parts reselling In less than 30 minutes, experienced car thieves can expertly break a person’s car security and drive off with the stolen car. In some cases, they can even strip it bare if the car was parked in a shady spot of a local town. Just last year, local officials apprehended suspects that were involved in one of the largest auto theft rings in the past two decades. With their 25 years in shady business, they operated on five chop shops, two of which were located in Lakewood and Brooklyn. They managed to steal 200 cars over the period of 18 months, and the majority that they hauled were Honda’s. Protect yourself and your community Even if the numbers might be underwhelming, and your location isn’t a target for most auto theft crimes, you shouldn’t be lax on your car security. Your first line of defence involves basic common sense. Hide your keys. Lock your car. Take your things. Keep that in mind as a reminder every time that you leave your car vulnerable. Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge in hand, you can help keep your city safe by placing the copyright and...Jun 26, 2012 | News
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...Jun 22, 2012 | News
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...Jun 21, 2012 | News
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...Jun 20, 2012 | News
Colorado’s auto theft statistics might have experienced a 63% decrease in 2011; however it still has a reported 9,311 car theft incidents in the same year. Even more surprising, is that it has been believed that people are more likely to experience car theft in the local state, than people living in New York or Ohio. Car theft trends Every week there are 140 cars stolen in Colorado, and in most cases, Honda Accord is the popular choice for thieves. In 2011, it has been stolen eight times across the Colorado area. Rounding up the list, NICB released a list of top ten stolen vehicles in 2010. Colorado’s Top Ten Stolen Vehicles in 2010 (NICB) 1996 Honda Accord 2000 Honda Civic 1995 Acura Integra 2001 Dodge Ram 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee 1990 Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size) 1998 Jeep Cherokee 2004 Ford F150 Series/Pickup 1989 Toyota Camry 2002 Ford Explorer Preventing car theft Even though there is a continuous pursuit to solve and pinpoint the exact formula for car theft and auto thieves, local officials has difficulty in finding an exact answer. Despite this, they have boiled down their process into identifying an auto theft hotspot, type of car and car colour. It is believed that thieves prefer to steal darker colored cars as they are easier to blend in the night. Basic auto theft tips The Colorado Auto Theft Investigators (CATI) recommends a layered approach when it comes to preventing auto theft. A topmost concern should be the location of your parked car. Make sure that you have chosen a well lit parking space. Have a feel of your...Jun 19, 2012 | News
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...Jun 18, 2012 | News
Good news for Michigan residents, auto theft numbers are down 9.35 percent from 2009 -2010. According to the Michigan Automobile Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA), car theft in Michigan has dropped 62 percent since 1986. Although these trends should be a source of relief, there are still 100 cars stolen locally each year. Technology and car security The popular targets by car thieves in Michigan are older models that were manufactured and released in the early 2000. Pickup trucks that were created by Dodge Ram, Chevrolet and Ford were among the favoured vehicles, mostly because they were believed to be easier to access than newer vehicles that have more elaborate security features. However, this might just be a temporary setback for thieves. For all the new security measures, there is the possibility that they might get around it, sooner or later. Setting basic security for your cars It doesn’t really matter if you own a newer model or an older version. It’s important to realize that most auto thefts are performed by amateurs, which means they depend on lapse of security measures and opportune locations. You can help protect your car by making sure to instil a routine check every time you leave it parked in a parking space. Start by taking out your keys from the ignition. Check each windows and doors, and make sure that they’re securely locked. Scan your car seats and floors, and take your important valuables. 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...Jun 15, 2012 | News
Last April, three Delaware county men were arrested for being cited as members of a car theft ring dubbed as “Operation Wheels of Fortune.” The $2.3 million international car theft ring was responsible for stealing high end luxury cars and SUV’s. The Delaware County Daily Times identified these men as; Shiek Fofanah, 31, of Yeadon; Akim Lane, 31, of the Folsom section of Ridley Township and Abdul Shaw, 27, of Darby. According to police investigation, the three Delaware local residents were part of the 26 arrested suspects in the auto theft investigation. Violence as a means to obtain stolen cars It was known that the car theft ring was a major threat to local residents, as they used brutal force and violence to obtain the cars that they wanted. The stolen cars were eventually shipped and resold to foreign brokers and buyers. Protect yourself from thieves News reports like these remind us of how dangerous car theft can be. Especially in the off chance that you’ll encounter the act in progress, there is a high risk that your safety will be at stake. To prevent this kind of experience, and to avoid auto theft all together, you must instil basic precaution to your car and for yourself. Basic safety tips The best thing to remember about car safety is vigilance. You must develop a basic but effective routine, and you must practice them at all times. Hide. Lock. Take. These three words might seem so simple, but they are your best bet against car theft. Hide your keys, and never leave them in your ignition. Lock your windows and your...Jun 14, 2012 | News
According to an NICB Annual Hot Spots Study, Nevada’s state wide auto theft rate rose from 26th per capita in the mid 1990s to first in 2006. Further, Nevada experienced a surge of car theft incidents when their state’s population grew in the years between 1990 and 2000. Fortunately, with the aid of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s VIPER Task Force, the numbers steadily declined, although car theft trends still remains a concern for the state of Nevada. State population and car theft statistics With the gap in ratio of residents and available jobs, it is not a surprise that the state experienced a higher percentage of crime activity. There may not be an accurate study that can link unemployment rate and crime rate in a state, as there are always varying factors that can aggravate or affect a certain crime trend. Nobel laureate Gary Becker has said it best when he stated that it is only but a normal reaction for impoverished families to turn to wayward means when honest work is not within their reach. How can you protect yourself from car theft? If you’re living in Nevada, or anywhere else, preventing car theft requires regular practice. No matter where you live, it is important to be vigilant and on guard. If you can afford it, make sure that your car comes with basic car security. There are various accessories that can help deter a car thief from stealing your car. Even if it means these things can only deter them for a while, at least there can be an opportunity for people to ask for help....Jun 13, 2012 | News
According to a piece written on CityRating.com, crime rate is on the rise for Louisville Metro residents. Compared to the 2009 data, violent crimes and property crimes have increased compared to Kentucky, its neighbour city. The report states that the city’s violent crime rate for Louisville Metro in 2009 reached an average of 39.03%. The same goes for the city’s property crime incidents, as it has increased and was higher than the national property crime rate average at 41.64%. Creating crime awareness in Louisville For the pursuit of lowering crime rates and spreading awareness, the Louisville Metro Police Department has launched a new online crime mapping tool. Residents can have regular crime trend updates by entering their address. Through this, the residents will get a chance to be on the loop, and they can add extra caution to their daily routine whenever there is a crime trend in their location. Property crime can happen anywhere Whether there is a crime trend or not, opportunistic thieves will strike in the most unlikely places. Property crime can happen anywhere, and this is proven to be true when a Kuttawa resident had her 1995 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck stolen right in front of her home. This just shows how important it is to be vigilant about your personal safety, or be it with your material possessions. If you can, you should always employ a layer of protection for your cars. Lock them safely. Hide your keys in a safe place. Take your valuables out of your cars whenever you leave them parked in parking lot. Help spread awareness in your city With this knowledge...Jun 12, 2012 | News
Personal car owners are not the only ones that need to be vigilant about their car security. Just recently, a Lisle car dealership became the victim of a car theft when suspects drove off with their 2012 Chevrolet Express Van. As reported on LemontPatch via a Lisle Police Department news release, there were three individuals that posed as prospective buyers and they drove off further to Lemont. With the car GPS in place the car was quickly found, however the three suspects is still waiting to be found. Car theft trends in Illinois According to the Illinois Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Council, Illinois ranks 7th in the states that experienced a huge reduction of motor vehicle offenses from 1990 – 2009. Even though the incidents has declined 64% compared in the past years, car theft incidents can happen anywhere, and anytime a window of opportunity passes between the car owner and a thief. Car safety Incidents likes this reminds us how vulnerable we all are when it comes to our security. There is no location in this world that can guarantee us that we are 100% safe, nor can we account that our cars will be looked out for whenever we leave it in popular shopping malls. Keep your car safe by employing basic safety techniques. There are three words that you should remember with your car’s safety; Hide. Lock. Take. Hide Lock Take Don’t leave your keys in your car’s ignition, and hide it in a safe place in your bag. Lock your doors and windows when you park them in parking areas. Take out your things that will otherwise incite a...Jun 11, 2012 | News
Location can play an important part in determining a state’s crime statistics. With New Mexico’s case, it is adjacent to the International Border and the frequency and prevalence of auto theft crimes remains a major threat for its residents and the local police. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), New Mexico is part of the 20 worst areas for car theft. New Mexico’s Top Ten Stolen Vehicles in 2010 The NICB also released the cars that are frequently eyed by thieves in New Mexico: 2001 Dodge Ram 1997 Honda Civic 1996 Honda Accord 1991 Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size) 1997 Ford F150 Series/Pickup 1990 Toyota Camry 2004 Ford F250 Series/Pickup 2006 Ford F350 Series/Pickup 2001 Ford Ranger 1994 Ford Explorer Car theft trends Technology has made it harder for thieves to steal an entire car, which is why there is a rise of stolen components and car accessories. Even though it means that there is a greater chance that you might get to keep your car, this doesn’t mean that your car will still be in pristine shape after an auto theft incident. Keep your car safe With security measures in place, the most you can do during these times is to be extra cautious about simple things that might slip your mind. Never leave your car windows half open. Avoid leaving your keys in its ignition. Park in well lit places, and pick a space that will likely have more foot traffic than most. 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...Jun 8, 2012 | News
Sometimes assuming facts can really cost you a hefty insurance bill. The majority of car owners believe that since car thieves are probably very skilled in unlocking complicated security contraptions, that it is not necessary to have a layered protection in their cars. However that is not the case, because according to the Baltimore Regional Auto Theft Team, only 35% of car theft is a result of professional handiwork or insurance fraud. Stay on guard Did you know that when the Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council conducted a study on the effectiveness of anti theft devices, only 5% of the 800 car subjects were protected with security measures? The resulting numbers has shown how lax we can be on our cars, when they are pretty expensive to begin with. Crime prevention begins at home The first key to preventing auto theft is to beat preconceptions about the real state of car safety and mechanics. It’s important to instil a vigilant stance, and it should start in the comforts of your home. People are more wary of leaving their cars in public places, such as mall parking lots, but are you aware that most cars are stolen right in front of a person’s house? According to the Baltimore Regional Auto Theft Team, only 4% of cars are stolen in malls and shopping areas. Protect your cars with basic safety tips Employing protection for your car is better than leaving it up for grabs to opportunistic thieves. Make sure that you keep an eye out on your car’s vulnerable spots. Close and lock your windows. Never leave the keys in the...Jun 7, 2012 | News
After 10 years of being listed in the top percentile of cities and states with the highest auto theft crimes, Arizona has now plunged several places down, and it’s definitely not a bad thing. California and its several cities occupy most of the spots in the National Insurance Crime Bureau report. Follow Arizona’s lead If anything can be certain, it is that auto theft is a crime that will continue to be prevalent, especially when the economy is at its worst. If you’re one of the lucky ones that resides in a state that has a lower crime rate than most, it doesn’t guarantee that you are 100% safe from any auto theft attempts. Basic precaution is key A car is an expensive investment; most of them are probably paid through several instalments that take a chunk out of a modest salary. The expense and the basic need for a mode of transportation should be enough reasons to help you stay vigilant with your car’s security. Hiding your keys properly is one of the main things that you should remember. Never leave a spare key lying around your car. When you purchase your car, make sure that you take the time to familiarize yourself with each point of access. By knowing your car’s vulnerable spots, you will know which ones are necessary to be locked and secured. 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...Jun 6, 2012 | News
Auto theft poses as a serious threat to people residing in Florida. Did you know that in 2009, Florida took the third spot on a list that chronicled the top 10 states with the highest number of auto thefts? It’s been noted that since car crimes has been on the rise, the act of stealing cars has acclimated to serious bodily injuries, and in some cases even deaths. Keep yourself safe from auto theft threats The Orlando Police Department advises people to perform basic precautions when it comes to safeguarding their vehicles. One of the most vital things to remember is to put away your keys in a safe place. When you leave your car in your garage, make a note of the location of your car keys. Don’t ever leave out a spare inside, as most thieves will likely have an idea of your “secret” hiding places Parking 101 On the instance that you’re out and about, avoid parking in dodgy places. Spaces that are well lit and are nearby foot traffic will more likely deter any car theft attempts. Take a good look around your car seats and the items that you might be leaving behind. Don’t leave valuables or expensive items that will lure a car thief in your general direction. 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...Jun 5, 2012 | News
Buying a car is a serious decision, even if you’re just going to purchase a used car in a dealership. There are intricate things to consider and a wealth of details to sift through before you should hand over your cash to the checkout counter. A prime example of a cautionary tale is this recent article posted by the Springfield News-Sun, where a double VIN has prompted the local officials to conduct further investigation on the origin of the cars in their stable. The Ohio State Highway Patrol’s Vehicle Theft Unit made a pit stop at Mershon’s World of Cars and seized two cars that had questionable documents. The owner, Dan Mershon vehemently denied any allegations that tied him to illegal activities, but the local officials remains resilient in conducting further investigations. Do you have a trustworthy car dealership? How do you go about in buying a car? Do you have a list of websites, or do you visit the local shops that you’ve found near your home? Before you go out on an expensive buying spree, it is very important that you conduct an overview of the store’s dealing history. If it is a used car, make sure that you know how to look over old documents, and that you bring a trusted mechanic to ensure a good purchase. Shady car dealerships and vehicle thefts Did you know that in every 25 seconds, one vehicle is being stolen in the United States? Most of the time, stolen cars are chopped into bits and pieces that are then resold through the retail market. Stop the vicious circle You can stop...Jun 4, 2012 | News
When the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) released their annual Hot Wheels Report in 2010, they have concluded that the most popular choice for car thefts were cars manufactured by Honda. Certain cars are targeted because of lax security measures, while some are eyed because of their part’s market value. To have a better look at the type of cars that are commonly stolen in Oregon, NICB released a list in 2010: 1. 1992 Honda Accord 2. 1998 Honda Civic 3. 1990 Toyota Camry 4. 1995 Acura Integra 5. 1996 Subaru Legacy 6. 1989 Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size) 7. 2003 Toyota Corolla 8. 1994 Ford F150 Series/Pickup 9. 2001 Dodge Ram 10. 1994 Nissan Sentra Auto theft can be an expensive nuisance Being a victim of an auto theft crime is not just a major inconvenience in terms of stolen property, but the resulting expense and insurance repercussions can create a major dent in your allotted budget. In a piece written by KTVZ.com, Karl Newman, NW Insurance Council president was quoted that “Consumers pay billions each year for auto theft,” he said. “The cost to replace stolen vehicles and repair those that are recovered is reflected in your insurance rates. That makes auto theft an important issue for every vehicle owner.” Safeguard yourself from auto theft Keep in mind that thieves will most likely target cars that are easier to break, so make sure that you give your car a chance by employing a strict security regiment. Having a presence of mind will make you less vulnerable, so try and remember the basic precautions. Keep important items off your unattended cars....Jun 1, 2012 | News
Just think about this for a minute: according to a report posted by ABC 4 News, every 68 minutes, a car is stolen in Utah. Car theft has become such a normal occurrence in the state that no one is surprised that most of these stolen vehicles are stripped and resold for parts by thieves. Auto theft statistics in Utah Car theft investigator Kent Jorgensen is unfazed about the rising incidents, since according to a reported data, 16 cars are stolen every day, almost 6,000 a year just in Utah alone. The most popular cars that are usually eyed by thieves are Honda Accord, Honda Civic and the Acura Integra. Protect your car from thieves Did you know that it only took roughly 7 minutes for a car to be disassembled, as proven when ABC 4 News conducted a simulated car robbery? It is an alarming revelation, and something that you should consider every time you leave your car unattended on lengthy hours. Install a layer of protection to your cars The most effective thing you can do is to employ a layer of protection to your cars. Make sure that you always remember to take away your keys, and that you properly lock every space that a thief might consider as a point of entry. Install alarms and devices that will deter and delay a car robbery in progress. 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...May 31, 2012 | News
With the economy in crisis, it’s not a surprise that crime is on the rise. Since 1994, auto theft crimes have been a major concern for American citizens. It was reported that during that time, there were 1.5 million vehicles stolen that had an estimated value of nearly $7.6 billion. Enforcing H.E.A.T. in Kansas Due to these incidents, the local law enforcers in Kansas established a program that specifically targeted vehicle theft. In 1990, the Kansas Police Department created H.E.A.T (Help Eliminate Auto Theft). The program’s primary goal was to establish cooperation and community awareness between local law enforcers and residents by helping each other deter and detect any auto theft attempts within the local community. Even though auto theft still remains to be a cause of concern in Kansas, it has been noted that the incidents has decreased statistically since the program has started. Auto theft is a costly crime Aside from being a nuisance, it can’t be denied that being a victim of an auto theft can create a ripple of loss in your life. It is necessary to be vigilant when it comes to your personal properties. When you take the time to implement a rigid set of precaution for your car’s safety, you’ll get a decent chance of avoiding possible auto theft attempts. 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...May 30, 2012 | News
Leaving your keys in the ignition can cause unimaginable horrors, just ask a local resident of Randolph, MA when he unwittingly left his car vulnerable and unsafe. A man stepped out for a Laundromat excursion, left his keys in his ignition and became the victim of an attempted auto theft. The car thief jumped into his car and sped through local streets, but the chase ended in Milton where he crashed into a tree that split the car in two. Massachusetts theft crimes Did you know that auto theft is one of the most common crimes in Massachusetts? As stated by William D. Kickham (Boston Criminal Attorney), auto theft “is defined and governed by a law that forbids receiving, stealing, buying, concealing or possessing a motor vehicle or trailer, which someone knew or had reason to know had been stolen.” In 2009, there had been a total of 11,735 listed cases of vehicle theft in the city. The numbers decreased from the years before, but it’s still something to mull over every time you leave your car vulnerable from possible auto crimes. Avoid being an auto theft victim Prevention is better than crying over stolen properties, which is why it is important to take precautions when it comes to your car. You can keep your car safe by employing simple strategies. Always remember to take out your keys whenever you leave your vehicle. Try and make sure that all areas of your car are closed. Avoid tempting burglars, by hiding and taking away important items like your phones and laptops from your car. Help spread awareness in your city...May 29, 2012 | News
Back in 2009, auto theft has made quite an impact in the city of Redmond, WA. Due to its location and accessibility, the city has suffered numerous issues, and most especially vehicular thefts. With the help of local enforcements, they had made strides with their car theft prevention program. Washington auto theft statistics The Washington State Patrol shares an insight on the current car theft trend in the state of Washington: In Washington State . . . A car is stolen every 13 minutes. 106 cars are stolen every day. More vehicles have been stolen this year than any other year. Your car has a one in 179 chance of being stolen. Many stolen vehicles are used for other crimes. One out of five stolen cars are started with a key that was left in the car. Increase crime awareness Crime awareness is something that is almost always laid to the side, especially when it’s not something that is a current concern in our lives. But alas, crime incidents strikes when we least expect, which is why it is imperative that we are aware of the basic precaution when it comes to our safety. 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 as a proactive crime awareness program in Dallas. It has since become the...May 28, 2012 | News
According to NeighborhoodScout.com, with a population of 19,378,102, there is a 1 in 51 chance that a New York resident can be a victim of a property crime. This is even more apparent when just recently; law enforcement officers had dismantled an international crime ring that was responsible for the theft of high end automobiles in New Jersey and New York. At this moment, they have arrested 11 of the 19 suspects who were believed to have been shipping and selling stolen cars over their market values. Car Safety 101 It might seem hard to believe, but keeping your car safe can be as simple as using your common sense. One of the first things to remember about car crime prevention is to take out the keys from your ignition. Most of the time, cars that are left unattended are the ones targeted by car thieves. It’s important to keep a presence of mind when you’re about to leave it in a parking space, or your garage. Close your car windows or any space that might make it easier for burglars to steal your car. Give Thieves a Hard Time You’ve paid a lot for your car, which is why it is important that you take the time to create a list of precautions to prevent yourself from becoming a victim of an auto theft. Extend some of your car protection tips to your family, or whoever would be taking turns in using it. 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...May 26, 2012 | News
Hide your things, lock your cars and take your keys. These three important reminders seemed to be all but lost to a bulk of California residents as it apparently has the highest rate of auto theft in 2010. According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, a Chicago-based industry trade group, there were eight cities that were primarily located in California that was found on their list. If you’re living in California, and especially in places that topped the list such as Fresno (they had 8.1 vehicle thefts per 1,000 residents in 2010), you must be wondering if there are ways to help keep your car safe from any future car theft attempts. Don’t fret, from following a few simple tips and tricks, you can be rest assured of your car’s safety, and maybe you can even help promote crime awareness in your local city. Lock your cars The California Attorney General’s Office points out that most cars are stolen by amateurs, and by taking the necessary precaution you can increase your car’s protection. The first thing that you should remember is to keep your cars locked. Always make sure that every inch of your car is locked whenever you leave it unattended. Make sure that your car’s windows and trunks are locked as well. Hide your things It is important that before you leave, look around your car seats and check if there are any valuables that might incite a thief’s interest. Remove your cell phones, laptops and bags before you leave. Take your keys Never leave your car keys lying around, and especially in its ignition. Don’t write...Apr 30, 2012 | News
Chili’s headquarters adopts the HLT program across the nation by adding the Hide Lock Take signs to their restaurant sites. It is great to see individual businesses take action and protect their customers by keeping them aware before crime starts. Chili’s is a perfect example of how awareness can be built up regardless if crimes have been reported or not. The more citizens recognize the program the more effective it is. Hide your things, lock your car, and take your keys; a reminder from Chili’s and your local police department! This program will go in effect across the nation at select locations in May and...Mar 21, 2012 | News
Fighting Auto Theft With Awareness API Magazine Article February 2012 It’s not every day that a person can boast about being a crime fighter or say they have thwarted experienced criminals, yet people are doing so across the nation. With a simple concept in mind, growing populations have taken a stand to fight auto theft by just being aware. Hide your things, Lock your car, and Take your keys is the phrase that is making all of this happen. Hide Lock Take (HLT), once Lock Take Hide, made its debut in the city of Dallas in 2004 at a police crime prevention demonstration. When crime was at an all time high and departments all over were investing in many ideas and concepts to help stop vehicle burglaries a small program started spreading. Within the city limits, yellow black and red signs were being placed in high traffic areas and back alley parking lots. These signs featured the phrase that caught the eyes and attention of anyone who chose to park in those areas. What seems to be a simple and obvious solution became precisely that. Crime does not have to be fought by police reports and detectives, true crime fighting starts with the average citizen. During the early 2000’s Texas experienced half a million auto burglaries and thefts. Large cities were hit the hardest by this way of crime. Once the Dallas Police Department took on HLT, vehicle crimes were reported to have decreased by over 80%. From there, the surrounding cities took on the awareness campaign and experienced even higher success rates. Shopping areas, parks, fitness centers,...