Call to freeze out car thieves

We are continuing to urge motorists in Staffordshire to freeze out car thieves by not leaving their vehicles running and unattended whilst they defrost.

Between 6am and 10am, when many people are removing ice ahead of their commute to work, or doing their first journey of the day, criminals are targeting vehicles.

This morning (Thursday 9 January), proactive officers were out and about in Meir and Meir Hay and gave advice to 12 motorists after spotting that their vehicles had been left unattended while defrosting.

Meanwhile, recent reports of such thefts in Stoke-on-Trent, Lichfield and South Staffordshire are being investigated.

Inspector Rebecca Price, Stoke South deputy commander, said: “Please do not leave your vehicle unattended whilst it defrosts. Sadly, there are opportunist thieves out there who will be on the look-out for easy pickings on frosty mornings.

“Stay with any running vehicle while it thaws out – even if it’s on your drive.

“It’s also a good idea to check the weather the night before and cover windscreens with a windscreen protector, or even a blanket.”

Please follow this advice:

• Make sure you stay with your vehicles at all times when they’re defrosting or running. Even if it means you’re going to be slightly late, it is better than having your vehicle stolen.
• Allow for extra time in the morning before setting off to make sure your vehicle is fully defrosted.
• Don’t start driving until the windscreen is fully defrosted and avoid driving altogether if weather conditions are extreme.

For further information on preventing car and vehicle theft, visit: https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/preventing-car-vehicle-theft/