PEORIA, Ill. — In the last month, a rash of stolen vehicles have been reported in Peoria. In response, police are reminding residents to lock their vehicles, homes and garages.
Peoria Public Information Officer Amy Dotson says leaving your car running with the keys inside makes it an easy target.
“There are people go around the city, looking for exact activity. The whole point of warming up your car is so that you can drive away in your car and be warm at the same time,” Dotson said.
The PPD suggests using anti-theft devices, like a steering wheel lock or GPS tracker, and to park in well lit areas or ideally inside your garage.
Leaving items like laptops, wallets or purses, money, unsecured firearms, cellphones or gifts in your vehicle, makes it that more attractive to theives.
Peoria Police say if you see any suspicious activity in your neighborhood, call 9-1-1 immediately.
“Report what you see, describe the subject, what is he or she doing, are they on foot, where do you see them. Any information you can give dispatch and the reporting officer is very helpful,” Dotson said.
