Two Cars—Unlocked, Keys Inside—Stolen from Gower Road

Two more vehicles—both unlocked and with the keys inside—were stolen from New Canaan last weekend, police said.

The thefts occurred on Saturday on Gower Road, according to a press bulletin issued by New Canaan Police Department Chief Leon Krolikowski.

One of them subsequently was used in a robbery in Bridgeport, and recovered following a police pursuit that saw five occupants taken into custody, Krolikowski said.

The other stolen vehicle was recovered in Waterbury, he said.

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

He added: “Criminal gang members from Bridgeport, Hartford, and Waterbury are suspects and/or have been arrested for these crimes.”

The crimes may have been prevented by following these tips, the chief said:

• Keys: Never leave 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: Always lock 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: Never leave valuables in your vehicle. Often, identity theft occurs when drivers’ licenses and credit cards are stolen.
• Use Your Alarm System: Always activate 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.