Middletown Police Warning About Property Car Thefts

MIDDLETOWN, NY — The City of Middletown Police Department is warning the public again about how to prevent car thefts.

In a Facebook post, the department said, like many municipalities in the area, the city has seen “an alarming increase in property thefts involving motor vehicles.”

That includes not only stolen vehicles, but stolen catalytic converters and property stolen from inside parked, unoccupied vehicles.

Police said they are working hard to locate and arrest whoever is responsible, but simple steps can be taken to help prevent becoming the next victim.

Authorities said that recent surveillance footage shows that, in less than three minutes, thieves can cut off and remove catalytic converters from a car — costing the owner more than $1,000.

Middletown police said the public should follow these tips:

• Always keep your vehicle locked
• Hide valuables, electronics, purses and wallets from plain view
• Park in busy, well-lit areas
• Never leave your car running and unattended
• Be alert for individuals looking into car windows or trying door handles
• Be alert for vehicles traveling through neighborhoods late at night with their headlights on, because they may be looking for their next target