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Police offer hints on how to avoid falling victim to auto thefts
Now that the cold weather is upon us, there might be that temptation for you to get up in the morning, start your car and allow it to warm up while you wait in the comfort of your home. Think twice about this practice, since auto thieves often search for signs of exhaust smoke coming from unattended vehicles and strike quickly.
Last year, a total of 581 vehicles were stolen in our city. And despite making a significant number of arrests for auto theft and recovering many of these vehicles, it continues to be a problem in Lodi as well as other cities. So far this year, 537 vehicles have been stolen in the city of Lodi.
Of the 537 vehicles stolen this year, most were taken between the hours of 5 a.m. and 9 a.m.. The one hour time period between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. accounted for 106 (or 20 percent) of the 537 stolen vehicles. Honda Civics and Accords remain the most popular, as well as Chevrolet trucks, Blazers and vans. A number of these thefts involve unlocked vehicles or ones left running while unattended.
Our officers are diligent in attempting to locate stolen vehicles and arresting those responsible. And while arresting individuals who commit these crimes is extremely important, it is more reactive than proactive. We need your help in order to really have an impact on this crime. You know the old saying, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Make it as difficult as possible for the thief! Sometimes we just make it too easy.
Your chances of being a victim of auto theft can be significantly reduced by practicing some simple preventative measures. Here are a few things you can do to decrease your chances of having your car stolen:
• Never leave your car running unattended, even to dash into a residence or business.
• Never leave keys in the car or ignition.
• Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is parked in front of your home.
• Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk so they are out of sight.
• Park in high-traffic, well-lighted areas when possible.
• Install a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel, column or brakes. These devices will deter criminals.
• Consider the purchase of a vehicle theft tracking/security system, especially if you own one of the frequently stolen model vehicles.
• Park your car in a garage or secure area, if available.
• Never leave personal identification documents, vehicle ownership title or credit cards in your vehicle.
• Copy your license plate and vehicle information (VIN) numbers on a card and keep them with you. If your vehicle is stolen, the police will need this information to take a report.
• If your vehicle is stolen, report it to the police immediately.
Crime Prevention Officer Andrea Patterson contributed to this column.
Questions, comments, or advice for Behind the Badge can be e-mailed to Captain David Main at dmain@pd.lodi.gov; mailed to Lodi Police Department, 215 West Elm Street, Lodi, CA 95240; or called in by phone at (209) 333-6726.

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