Dearborn Police: 'Stop Car Theft, Lock Your Doors'

DEARBORN, MI — The Dearborn Police Department is reminding residents to do their part to stop car theft.

A thief can strip a car of its parts in less than thirty minutes, police warn.

"You can prevent car theft by always keeping your vehicle doors and windows locked and by parking in well-lit areas," authorities said on the City of Dearborn's Facebook page.

According to Insurify, the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in fewer people driving throughout the nation, including in Dearborn. With cars left idle for longer periods, drivers are left more vulnerable to automotive theft than ever before.

Car theft can have pricey consequences on the victim. Besides the upfront cost of a deductible, insurance premiums can increase considerably after an incident, Insurify reports. For communities, the crime is associated with increases in crime rates; thieves often use stolen cars to commit additional crimes.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also warns people to never leave keys in the ignition, even for one minute. Also, always lock your door and park in a garage or a well-lit area.

• Report it to the police immediately.
• Be ready to provide the make, model, year, VIN and color of the vehicle.
• Contact your insurance company.

• Parking garages
• Parking lots
• Street parking