FREDERICK POLICE DEPARTMENT
100 West Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701
301-600-2100
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 24, 2007

THEFTS OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES FROM VEHICLES

Like many Maryland jurisdictions, the City of Frederick is experiencing over-night electronics thefts from vehicles. Most common items stolen are GPS navigation systems, radar detectors, Ipods and cell phones. The Frederick Police Department recommends that Frederick citizens take appropriate steps to ensure the safety of their valuables.

Because they are so easily stolen from vehicles, GPS and other electronic devices should always be detached and removed from plain sight when leaving a vehicle for any period of time. Leaving a removable unit in an unlocked and/or unattended vehicle presents a ready opportunity for thieves.

As Chief Dine recommends in his “Outta Sight” program, nothing of value should ever be left in plain view in an unattended vehicle. Theft from vehicle is obviously a crime of opportunity – so please don’t present thieves with an opportunity.

The Department also recommends that citizens not only remove all items from sight, but also lock their vehicles when they leave them. Many recent thefts involved cars with unlocked doors, allowing criminals unrestricted access to valuables within. Citizens are also encouraged to park their vehicles in well-lighted areas because this also serves as a deterrent to those criminals who fear being seen or identified.

The Frederick Police Department would like to thank the citizens of Frederick for their help and cooperation in keeping the City of Frederick as safe as possible. Together we can cut down on crime and maintain Frederick’s quality of life.