Car Theft: Lock It Or Lose It|ABC News 4

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Car Theft: Lock It Or Lose It

posted 5:49 pm Wed February 06, 2008 - Mount Pleasant, SC

tags: car break-ins • mount pleasant police department • theft • hijacking

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ABC News 4 - Car Theft: Lock It Or Lose It

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Car break-ins are unavoidable, but in 80 percent of those thefts, the cars are unlocked. The Mount Pleasant Police Department has launched a new initiative to keep residents and their belongings safer.

“80 percent of all car break-ins are from unlocked cars, lock it or lose it,” said Chief Harry Sewell, Mount Pleasant Police Department.

Many people don't realize car theives are everywhere, and residents must be proactive to prevent their cars from be stolen.

“Oh, the keys are in the ignition, and I will say honestly, you're not the only person that's done that,” noted E. Rachel Miller, Field Training Officer, Mount Pleasant Police Department, while conducting a safety check for a concerned resident.

It's not just vehicles that are stolen, it's the property inside cars residents have to protect.

“We've had guns taken out of vehicles that are hidden under the car, but we've also had them left and laptops left and just take change. It's really weird. It just depends on what the criminal is looking for. What I say is, let's not give them any opportunity,” said Sewell.

Many feel violated and embarrassed to have their car broken into, but always report it to the police.

“It's an underreported crime; a lot of people feel it's just an Ipod taken. The police don't want to hear about that. We want to keep good statistics about it, so no matter what it is, no matter what it is, even if you notice some change missing from your car,” said Miller.

Mount Pleasant Police Department hopes to reduce vehicle break-ins by 20 percent this year.

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