There has been a pattern of auto theft incidents taking place in Nassau County and throughout the Tri-State area.

Owners of luxury cars and SUVs, like the late model Land Rover, Mercedes Benz and other vehicles with push button starts and key fobs should take particular caution, warns County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Police Commissioner Victor F. Politi.

Auto theft incidences involving such vehicles have taken place during day light hours as well as at night. When drivers leave their car unlocked and the key fob in the vehicle with a push button start, it makes it a prime target for thieves.

In addition to keeping your vehicle locked and key fob by your side, be alert and observant of your surroundings, including cars and people who may appear suspicious.

To safeguard your vehicle for becoming a target for theft, police recommend:

• Always lock your vehicle, even when it’s parked in your driveway or garage.
• Always take your keys or fob with you.
• Never leave or hide a smart key, valet key, or spare key anywhere in or on your vehicle, no matter where you park it.
• Park your vehicle in a locked garage, when possible.
• Keep the exterior of homes and driveways well illuminated.
• Close all your vehicle windows completely when parked.
• Secure your garage door opener to prevent access to your home.

When reporting a suspicious person or vehicle, you can help police by readily having available as much information as possible regarding the description of the suspicious subject. Also take down the license plate number – it is extremely valuable information for the police to have.

[Source: Nassau County Police Department; County Executive Edward P. Mangano.]