Police are offering drivers advice on how to avoid getting their cars stolen this summer with the help of an unlikely source – a convicted car thief.
The ex-thief, who wished to remain anonymous for obvious reasons, is reported to have committed a spree of vehicle-related crimes across the south coast, before turning over a new leaf.
Now, as part of the UK police’s crackdown on car thefts, which typically spikes during the summer period, he’s giving up his secrets to help motorists avoid becoming victims of the same crimes he used to commit.
"When I’m looking at a car, I’m looking at what kind of security it’s got," he said. “I’m looking at whether it’s going to be something quick and easy or if it’s going to take a bit of time.
“Depending on the situation and time I’ve got, I decide whether it’s worth doing. I’ve found wallets in there, car keys, house keys and jewellery. People just leave a lot of stuff. Don’t leave anything on display – nothing."
He said that some of the precautions drivers can take to deter criminals include fitting stickers and signs to say that the car is alarmed, while simple steering wheel locks can also ward off potential thieves.
"If people were more security conscious, it wouldn’t take them even five minutes to clear out their car and make it secure," he added.
Detective Inspector Andy Dilworth of Bournemouth Police Station, said: "In this hot weather, people sometimes leave their windows open and doors unlocked when they park up or leave smaller items like sunglasses on show, which entices the thieves to try door handles and break in to the vehicle."
Car Keys top tips:
- Always close your windows and lock the doors
- Never leave the engine running unattended when de-icing your car
- Move the steering wheel side-to-side before getting out to lock the steering
- Hide or remove your valuables
- Park under a street light or security camera at night
- Keep your keys safe to stop criminals from taking them
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