Families warned to lock vehicles as police continue to target thieves

Car crime is close to the top of the list for issues being tackled by our neighbourhood police and officers are now reminding families to lock their vehicles and hide their valuables.
Officers continue to tackle car crime in the Force area.Officers continue to tackle car crime in the Force area.
Officers continue to tackle car crime in the Force area.

On Monday, January 20, Peterlee Neighbourhood Police Team released a fresh warning regarding car crime to the public.

Across the County Durham area, police have been receiving numerous reports regarding vehicles being targeted by thieves.

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Officers have now claimed that it appears that the thieves “are having the pick of the bunch” when it comes to our area.

Neighbourhood police have noticed that most vehicles are unlocked in the cases where thieves have attacked and expensive items are often in plain sight.

A spokesperson for Peterlee Police said: “Whilst it is not exclusively the case, the vast majority of vehicles appear not locked.

“Neighbourhood teams across the County have revisited areas and estates which have had issues to find that vehicles are still not being locked or expensive items still on display.

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“In Peterlee, Blackhall and Horden vehicles have been targeted by opportunists because items have been left on display.”

Families have now been reminded about the importance of keeping their belongings safe as officers continue to tackle car crime across the Force area.

This is their advice to you

Never leave keys in the ignition or in your car, even for a short time.

Park with care, if possible in a busy, well-lit area.

If you have a garage, use it. If you park on a driveway, close and lock any gates.

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Close windows, sunroof, lock doors and activate security alarms when leaving your car.

Take valuables with you when you leave your car. Remove any suction cup marks from windows.

If you have no choice, make sure valuables are locked in the boot, taking care no one is watching you.

Keep your driving and vehicle documents safe and not in you car.

Postcode your valuables with a UV pen.

Make sure your keys are secure at home and work.