Norristown Police Warning: Do Not Keep Unattended Cars Running

NORRISTOWN —Norristown Police Chief E. Derrick Wood said auto thefts continue to increase because motorists are leaving their cars running and unattended.

Despite the increase in gas prices, motorists are leaving vehicle running while shopping and doing other errands.

“Please use common sense,” the chief said Wednesday. “People are leaving their cars running for 30 minutes. You can’t leave your car door unlocked with the car running.”

Police are investigating these motor vehicle theft:

• May 5: 11 p.m. 500 block of Stanbridge Street
• May 6: 2:30 p.m. 500 block of Swede Street
• May 8: 6:48 p.m. 700 block of West Oak Street
• May 8: 8 p.m. 1000 block of New Hope Street

Police are investigation these thefts from motor vehicles:

• May 4: 10 p.m. in the 1700 block of Harding Boulevard
• May 5: 12:01 a.m. in the 700 block of Moore Street
• May 6: 3 p.m. in the 1300 block of Powell Street
• May 6: 11 p .m. 1000 block of Dekalb Street.
• May 8: 11 p.m. in the 500 block of Stanbridge Street.

Here are ways to prevent theft of autos and items inside autos

• 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.

Anyone with information, call 610-270-0977, or to remain anonymous, call 278,TIPS or email NPDTips@norristown.org.