Warning to motorists after spate of defrosting thefts

We are reminding people not to leave their vehicles unattended whilst they are defrosting, following another spate of thefts across Staffordshire.

This morning (17 January), three cars have been reported stolen in Stoke-on-Trent. In each case, the owners left their vehicle unattended whilst it was still running.

All three owners have described similar circumstances surrounding the thefts: multiple offenders have arrived in one vehicle, one of them has jumped out, quickly got into the car and driven off.

A further two defrosting thefts have been reported this morning: one in Draycott-in-the-Moors and one in Cannock.

Enquiries are ongoing to track down all five vehicles, review footage from the areas and find those responsible.

We are urging all motorists to be particularly cautious when defrosting their vehicles.

Opportunists can work in groups during the cold weather to target vehicles that have been left unattended whilst unlocked, especially as people are leaving for work or the school run and they warm up their car and leave the keys inside.

If you need to return to your property, please remove the keys from the ignition, take them with you and make sure the vehicle is fully locked and secured. 

Inspector Karen Cooke, from the Moorlands local policing team, said: “Saving a few minutes in the morning by leaving your car open and unlocked whilst your car defrosts is not worth potentially having your car stolen. Thieves prey on those who cut corners on their security and some insurers won't pay out if your vehicle is stolen in this way.

"Please do not leave your vehicle whilst it is defrosting. By acting responsibly, you are limiting thieves' chances of stealing your car."

To find out more about how you can protect your vehicle, visit: Preventing car and vehicle theft | Crime Prevention | Staffordshire Police