Police on Sunday received multiple reports of unlocked cars being entered in New Canaan, officials said.
In one case, an unlocked 2013 Subaru with its keys inside was stolen from a Heritage Hill Road driveway, Police Chief Leon Krolikowski said in a press release.
That car later was recovered on Parish Lane, he said.
Small amounts of cash were also stolen from vehicles on upper Elm Street, Prospect Place, Oenoke Lane and Parish Road, the chief said.
“It is probable that these crimes are being committed by gang members,” Krolikowski said in the release. “Many towns in Fairfield County are experiencing similar crimes and some of these stolen vehicles have been used in robberies and drive-by shootings.”
The thefts come weeks after two Jeeps, both unlocked with keys inside, were stolen from New Canaan driveways.
Krolikowski issued these prevention tips:
- Keys: When unattended NEVER leave the keys to your home or car inside a vehicle or in a place where a thief can find them. Do not leave the valet key, key fob or garage door opener inside of your vehicle.
- 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, garage 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. All of the thefts from vehicles and vehicle thefts that occur in our Town involve unlocked vehicles.
- 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. Many successful crimes that occur in our Town involve houses or cars that have alarm systems that were not activated.
- Security video cameras: Consider installing a security/video camera that covers the interior/exterior of your residence and the street near it. The price point of good quality camera systems has dropped recently making this a wise investment.
Be better informed, connected, and send anonymous tips to our Department by downloading the “MYPD” application in the iPhone or Android marketplace. After downloading the application search for “New Canaan” and get connected. Follow us on Twitter@newcanaanpolice for crime alerts. Never hesitate to contact NCPD at 203-594-3500 for assistance.