Crime Alert Warning In Morristown: Police

MORRISTOWN, NJ — The ongoing spike in auto thefts and car burglaries has officials prompting residents to be vigilant.

According to authorities, over the last couple of months, Morristown and surrounding communities have experienced a slight increase in vehicle theft and other forms of auto crime.

According to a Nixle alert sent out by police, all residents are being asked to lock their vehicles and remove all valuables from their cars as soon as possible.

In Morris Plains, police alerted residents of a potential car thief in the early hours of Friday, Oct. 28. According to police, one of the officers chased out of town a possible "car shopper" after observing the vehicle in the area of Mountain Way and Rosedale Avenue.

"As of now, we have no reported burglaries to motor vehicles, so kudos goes to our residents for that. This is just a reminder that this uptick is increasing all over the county and we remind everyone to please lock their vehicles," police said.

The Morristown Department of Public Safety offered the following tips earlier this year to avoid becoming the victim of theft:

• Never leave your car running or the keys in the ignition when you are away from it, even for "just a minute."
• Keep valuables out of sight or in the trunk. Purses, money, credit cards and cell phones in plain view only help attract thieves.
• Always close the windows and lock your car, even if it is in your driveway, garage or in front of your home or a business. Never leave key fobs in the vehicle.
• Always be alert, and report suspicious activity immediately by dialing 911.
• If your vehicle has an alarm or other anti-theft device, use it.