Lancaster - Lancaster Bureau of Police Uniformed Patrol Division in conjunction with the Lancaster Bureau of Police Auto Theft Unit has made several arrests of juvenile subjects for the theft of numerous vehicles. The thieves typically stole cars only when they found a key for the vehicle within the unlocked car. When interviewed, the thieves noted that they intentionally target suburban areas because people living in those areas are easier targets. One suspect explained to Detectives that they go to the suburbs because "they leave their cars unlocked."

Now that the weather has turned colder people are prone to start their vehicles and then return inside their house as the car warms up. Vehicle owners also leave their vehicle running while they frequent convenience stores or while loading or unloading their vehicle.

To cut down on thefts of unlocked and running vehicles, Lancaster Police have begun enforcing the Lancaster City Ordinance that prohibits unlocked or running vehicles from being left unattended on any street, private driveway, public or private parking lot, used or new car sales lot or any other unattended open space which is readily accessible to any person with out having locked the ignition of such vehicle and removed the ignition key from its lock.

Lancaster City Police will continue to enforce this ordinance with special details and with normal patrol duties. Motorists are encouraged to take steps to protect their car from theft. Remote engine starters are great for warming your car on a cold day without compromising the vehicle's locking system. They are also great at helping to avoid the hefty fine associated with breaking the ordinance. - (Lancaster City Police)