Following a recent string of vehicle thefts, Barrie police are reminding the public to make sure they are locked after being parked.
Since Sunday, police report five vehicles have been stolen: four from driveways, and one from a shopping plaza lot.
"Of the four stolen from driveways, they all appear to have been stolen overnight while the other occurred late yesterday afternoon," officers said in a media release on Wednesday.
The thefts include a 2022 Dodge Durango, a 2022 GMC Yukon, a 2009 Volkswagen Touareg, a 2010 Cadillac DTS, and a 2017 Jeep Compass.
Officers added that past reports of stolen vehicles were for Dodge Rams, Toyota Highlanders, and Lexus RX350s.
"The Barrie Police Service is strongly encouraging the public to take a few minutes and make certain that no spare keys or key fobs are in their motor vehicles and that all keys and fobs are accounted for. Investing in a Faraday pouch for key fobs, a steering wheel locking device, an ignition immobilizing device, and even a tire chock lock or parking boot are all ways to help prevent you from becoming a victim of auto theft. If you have the ability to park in a garage, this too is helpful, but don’t forget to lock the car and any doors that may lead in or out of the garage," police stated.
"As organized thefts of motor vehicles continue, owners must do more to protect their investment and always secure their vehicles when they leave them. Check and double-check that your doors are locked as this is always a good place to start – anything that you can do beyond that would be helpful and may prevent you from becoming the next victim of an opportunistic thief."
Banner image - file photo - Barrie 360
