Spate of vehicle thefts continues whilst they are left defrosting

We are urging people not to leave their vehicles unattended whilst they are defrosting following a continued spate of thefts across Staffordshire.

This morning (6 December), a van was stolen in Stoke-on-Trent, after the owner had left it running to defrost with the keys in the ignition, before returning to his house. We have since recovered the van and arrested a 38-year-old man, from Newcastle-under-Lyme, on suspicion of taking a car without the owner’s consent and possession of a class B drug.

This morning alone, a further six vehicles have been stolen under similar circumstances. Enquiries are ongoing to track them down.

We are urging all motorists to be especially cautious when defrosting their vehicles. Thieves are looking for easy opportunities to steal them when they are left in public view, unlocked and unattended.

If you need to return to your property, please remove the keys from the ignition and make sure the vehicle is fully locked and secured.

Deputy Commander Karen Cooke said: “Vehicle theft is a priority for all ten local policing teams across Staffordshire. We will go after those responsible and we will protect the hard-earned belongings of our communities.

“The cold weather has brought with it an increased number of reports of attempted vehicle thefts whilst cars are being left to defrost. It might be convenient to do so, but it’s also convenient for thieves and opportunists.

“We are urging everyone to stay with their vehicles whilst they are defrosting. By taking extra steps to limit the chances of being targeted by thieves, we can continue to tackle vehicle theft and make progress against those responsible.”

To find out more about how you can protect your vehicle, visit: Preventing car and vehicle theft | Crime Prevention | Staffordshire Police