Police are urging residents to lock and check their cars, as part of a new initiative to reduce car thefts.
The ‘You’ve Been Checked’ campaign encourages car owners to fight the habit of leaving vehicles unlocked and valuables on display for potential thieves.
Over the next month, members of Crime Stoppers and Victoria Police will be checking vehicles are secure and valuables are not visible at carparks across several areas, particularly in Thomastown.
Across the state, there were 14,881 motor vehicle theft offences reported in the year to March.
There were 47,140 thefts from motor vehicle offences during the same period.
Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith said while it only takes a second to lock your car, it is a lengthy process to replace phones, ID and credit cards.
“The most common property items stolen from vehicles include cash and personal documents, car accessories, power tools, mobile phones, and laptops,” Ms Smith said,
“Theft of property from motor vehicles can cause considerable financial loss and inconvenience. Theft of your personal documents can also lead to identity theft.
“We want Victorians to always remember to lock and check their vehicles.”
Inspector Paul Morgan said: “It does not matter if you have parked at a train station, a shopping centre or at home – the single most important thing you can do to prevent your car from being stolen is to lock it. Lock your car and always physically check it is locked.
“Vehicle theft impacts people’s sense of safety. That’s why we’re so determined to address it. Working with Crime Stoppers allows us to bring attention to this issue.”
