Rise In Car Thefts In Westport Prompts New Warning From Police

WESTPORT, CT — The Westport Police Department is warning residents and visitors about a rise in vehicle thefts and attempted thefts, citing recent investigations that show a shift toward more aggressive methods by suspects.

"As has been the case for the last several years, the Westport community continues to be a persistent target for car thieves," said Westport Police Lt. Anthony Prezioso in a statement. "A trend that began as incidents relegated mostly to perpetrators systematically walking neighborhoods in the overnight hours, wherein these individuals were looking to avoid confrontation and detection by their victims, has now evolved into offenders seeking to acquire vehicles through more aggressive and brazen means."

In several recent incidents, victims reported encountering suspects in their driveways or inside residential garages shortly after arriving home. Police said evidence in those cases suggests the vehicles and owners were deliberately targeted. Investigators believe some victims were followed from grocery stores, gas stations or other public places where vehicles were left unattended.

One recent case involved a suspect, who entered a vehicle parked in a public lot, believing it to be unoccupied, and encountered a teenager seated in the back.

"Fortunately, in this instance, the alarm created by this situation caused the perpetrator to flee the area," Prezioso said.

Police said vehicle theft remains common in Westport and nearby communities. Investigators noted that most reported incidents involve vehicles that were unlocked or left running with keys or key fobs inside or within reach.

Prezioso said that the department has multiple active investigations and is using various methods to identify and apprehend suspects. Police also said suspects have taken steps to avoid identification.

"We strongly urge our residents and visitors to please be mindful of what continues to be an escalating crime trend," Prezioso said. "Simple tactics like locking parked vehicles, removing keys and fobs from the passenger compartment when a vehicle is to be left unattended and locking garages all continue to be strong deterrents to the commission of these crimes."

Additionally, situational awareness has become increasingly important as thefts occur more quickly and involve closer contact with victims.

"It is not difficult to envision the various ways that direct encounters with suspects could lead to negative outcomes, so we urge all to be mindful of their surroundings and to maintain a heightened state of vigilance," Prezioso said. "If you observe suspicious activity or feel that you are being followed, contact 9-1-1 and/or drive to the nearest police station immediately."

The department also recommends parking in enclosed garages when possible and avoiding leaving vehicles unlocked, even briefly, noting that recent thefts have occurred in a matter of seconds.