With the number of vehicles thefts on the rise in Chatham-Kent, local authorities are warning area residents to be on guard.
Officials with Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers say police in several jurisdictions across Ontario have reported incidents involving trackers being secretly attached to vehicles. The devices, which can be magnetically attached to areas such as wheel wells or undercarriages, allow thieves to monitor a vehicle’s location remotely. Criminals can then use the technology to track when and where a vehicle is parked before trying to steal it.
“While we have not seen a drastic increase in this type of crime, we do know that there are an average of around 200 stolen vehicle complaints reported to Chatham-Kent police each year. It is important that people are aware of the tools being used by thieves so they can protect themselves,” said Erica McIntosh, Coordinator with Chatham-Kent Crime Stoppers in a news release. “If you have a vehicle such as a pickup truck or even a small car, make sure to regularly check your vehicle, especially areas that something magnetic could attach out of sight.”
Crime Stoppers encourages residents to make vehicle checks part of their routine, particularly if they notice unfamiliar objects or devices attached to their vehicle. If something suspicious is found, individuals should avoid touching or removing the item and instead contact police so it can be properly investigated.
However, officials say vehicle owners can also use trackers to their own advantage. Crime Stoppers officials say small tracking devices can assist owners and investigators in locating stolen property and could increase the chances of recovery.