Police Chief: Two More Unlocked Cars with Keys Inside Stolen in New Canaan

Two more unlocked cars with the keys left in them have been stolen from New Canaan homes, officials said.

New Canaan Police Department Chief Leon Krolikowski said a Range Roger and Acura MDX likely were stolen in the early morning hours Monday from Kimberly Place and Woodridge Drive, respectively.

“Thus far this year, all of the vehicles stolen in our town involved unlocked vehicles with the keys were left inside,” the chief said in a press release. “In addition to these vehicle thefts, many thefts of valuables from unlocked vehicles occurred. Often, these thefts result in identity thefts.”

In recent cases, gang members from Bridgeport, Hartford and Waterbury have been arrested or identified as suspects in the thefts.

Here are some prevention tips from Krolikowski:

• Keys: Neverleave the keys to your home or car inside a vehicle or in a place where a thief can find them.
• Light Up Your Home: At night, keep the perimeter of your home & driveway well lit. Low energy lighting switched on and off by photoelectric sensors (low light switches) is a cost-effective way to discourage criminals.
• Lock Up: Alwayslock all doors and windows of your car and home whenever you leave, day or night, even for a short time. If you have a garage, put your car in it and lock/alarm both the car and the garage.
• Secure Valuables: Neverleave valuables in your vehicle. Often, identity theft occurs when drivers’ licenses and credit cards are stolen.
• Use Your Alarm System: Alwaysactivate your home and car alarm systems. The majority of successful crimes that occur in our Town involve houses or cars that have alarm systems that were not activated.

Be better informed, connected, and send anonymous tips to the New Canaan Police Department by downloading the “MYPD” application in the iPhone or Android marketplace. After downloading the application search for “New Canaan” and get connected.

Follow the NCPD on Twitter@newcanaanpolice for crime alerts and contact NCPD at 203-594-3500 for assistance.