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Vehicle stolen with keys left in ignition

RCMP warn motorists to lock vehicles
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Over the past week Rimbey RCMP member’s responded to 36 calls of service. A few traffic violations were issued and a few minor motor vehicle collisions occurred.

A call came in of a stolen vehicle where the keys were in the ignition and it was left running. Again RCMP are warning people DO NOT LEAVE YOUR VEHICLE UNLOCKED WITH THE KEYS IN THE IGNITION, RUNNING. This is a prime reason for vehicle thefts in the area.

A male was arrested during targeted patrols in a hot spot area for criminal activity in Rimbey. A traffic stop was initiated on a truck associated to a male that was wanted for a number of offences, including Break and Enter to a residence. The male was located in the truck, arrested without incident, in total, three warrants executed and he was remanded in custody.

One call was received from a concerned citizen reporting a suspicious activity. As a result members associated a vehicle that was determined to have a cloned VIN, stolen out of Edmonton area and a second vehicle was located with a stolen license plate which had a small amount of illegal drugs located in the vehicle.

Tips to prevent Vehicle Theft

Do not leave your vehicle running – Do not leave your vehicle unattended while running with the key in the ignition. NOTE: Remote car starters are not a problem; they are designed to shut off if attempts are made to steal the vehicle. No Spare Keys - Do not leave a spare key hidden in the vehicle. Thieves look for spare keys, and once they break into your vehicle, they know all the hiding spots.

Lock Up Your Vehicle - Always check that the doors, windows, and sun roof are shut and locked when you park your vehicle. Leave your vehicle in a locked garage where possible. Lock your vehicle even when it is in the locked garage. Be aware of where you park - park in parking lots that have more than one of the following:

• Security cameras;

• Security patrolling the parking lot;

• Someone working at an entrance/exit booth;

• A gated parking lot that needs a pass to get in and out;

• Well lit;

• A busy parking lot with lots of people coming and going or an area where there are lots of vehicles or pedestrians passing by.

Treat Your Keys Like Cash – Don’t leave keys in places where they are easy to snatch, such as a gym locker, on your desk at work, visible in an open purse or unattended in a shopping cart. Thieves will grab and go, then head out to the parking lot and push the button on your key fob until they find your car.

Use a Steering Wheel Locking Device (e.g. The Club) - A well-secured car will deter thieves. There are other devices available to consumers to stop thieves from easily stealing your vehicle. See your local automotive stores for details. Do not leave items in your vehicle - Thieves can be attracted to your car because personal items are left in plain sight. Never leave anything in your vehicle, including loose change, cell phones, CDs, cameras, clothing, sunglasses, cigarettes, lighters, and any other items. Install a Remote Car Starter - Remote starters are designed to shut off if anyone attempts to drive the vehicle without a key. This will allow you to warm up your car without risk of theft.