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SALT LAKE CITY — The Salt Lake City Police Department issued a warning to owners of older Hondas of all makes and models to take precautions due to the large number of such vehicles stolen since the first of the year.
Since January 1, the SLCPD Auto Theft Unit reports more than 450 cases of theft and recovery of 1990-2000 model-year Hondas.
"Many of these vehicles are simply taken for transportation because someone has figured out a way to alter keys," said Sgt. Stefhan Bennett, who commands the Auto Theft Unit.
"Since the vehicles are not stripped, just dumped, we figure they're taking them because they can," Bennett said. "While it may be a small inconvenience, we suggest using a steering wheel locking device, which oftentimes deters a car thief."
The Auto Theft Unit has also recovered 125 Hondas within the city that were stolen from surrounding jurisdictions since the beginning of the year, Bennett noted.
Regardless of make or model, SLCPD encourages vehicle owners to take preventive measures to deter car thieves, including the following measures:
- Do not leave your keys in your car
- Do not leave your vehicle unattended while it's running
- Remove valuables or store them out of sight
- Roll up the windows and lock the doors
- Park in well-lighted areas
- Use an anti-theft device or car alarm
The SLCPD offers more tips about protecting your car from theft on the SLCPD Auto Theft Unit webpage.
Top Image Credit: Michael Brandy
