Norristown Police Chief: Do Not Leave Cars Running Unattended

NORRISTOWN —Norristown Police Chief Derrick E. Wood said auto thefts are increasing in the borough because motorists are leaving their cars running and unattended.

“The biggest issue is auto theft and theft from inside autos,” Wood said, when providing a report to borough council Tuesday night.

Wood said that the department is educating the public on vehicle theft prevention through flyers and social media.

According to the borough's weekly crime report from April 25 to May 2:

Reported Theft of Motor Vehicle

• Zero block of East Freedley Street
• Zer0 block of West Lafayette Street
• 500 block of Swede Street
• Zero block of West Marshall Street (inactive)
• 1500 block of Arch Street (inactive)

Reported Theft from Motor Vehicle

• West Marshal and Corson streets
• 600 block of Sandy Street
• 600 block of Corson Street

Here are ways to prevent theft of autos and items inside autos, according to police:

• Always keep the doors locked and keys with you anytime you leave your vehicle, even if it’s for a two-minute run into the house or store.
• Do not leave items of value in plain view inside your car. Lock them in your trunk or hide them so as not to tempt someone to take them.
• Do not leave your car running to warm up if you are not in your car. It only takes seconds for someone to notice this and take advantage of the situation.
• Never leave a spare set of keys in your car for convenience. Thieves will look for these and use them to deprive your vehicles. This includes valet keys.
• Park your car in a well-lit area, if possible. Thieves hate the light.

To provide information, call 610-270-0977 or you can remain anonymous by calling 610-278-TIPS or NPDTips@norristown.org