Thefts from cars plague central city

Wellington Police are warning motorists to lock their vehicles and take valuables with them as thefts from cars continues to plague the city.

&#34The number of theft complaints being received is almost at epidemic levels,&#34 says Inspector Marty Grenfell, Wellington City Area Controller. &#34Vehicle crime accounts for 20 percent of the reported offending each year and thefts from vehicles make up the bulk of it.&#34

A recent analysis of the inner city problem showed that in sixty percent of the reported cases, the owners had left their vehicles in purpose built car parking buildings.

&#34We’re getting increasingly concerned at the level of offending. The problem isn’t just confined to Wellington,&#34 Mr Grenfell says. &#34Vehicle crime, especially thefts from vehicles, is becoming a national pastime for some criminals.&#34

Wellington Police and Wellington City Council have just spent three days assessing features of inner city carparks, devising strategies to make them safer and reduce the opportunity for thieves.

&#34Targeted enforcement is not the only answer,&#34 Mr Grenfell says. &#34We’re working closely with lighting experts, environmental designers and car parking operators to make things safer.

&#34The public however still needs to play their part by making sure they lock their cars and take valuables with them.&#34

Council staff and police have been distributing crime prevention leaflets in car parks as a gentle reminder.

&#34It’s incredibly frustrating and heartbreaking for people who have taken sensible precautions only to find windows smashed or locks forced and items taken.&#34

Laurie Gabites, Wellington City Council’s Safer City Coordinator, says the council is pleased to be working with police on addressing the problem.

&#34We want residents and visitors to the city to feel confident that when they leave their car in a parking building, the car and its contents will still be there on their return.&#34