The Chatham-Kent Police Service is reminding residents to stay alert after responding to 202 stolen vehicle complaints across the municipality in 2024.
Police say 120 of the thefts involved sedans, SUVs, pickup trucks, minivans or motorcycles, while the remaining stolen vehicles included electric bicycles, ATVs and off-road motorcycles. An analysis of the data shows pickup trucks were targeted at significantly higher rates than other vehicle types.
Officers are encouraging residents to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of theft, including locking vehicles at all times, removing keys from inside and keeping valuables out of sight. Police also recommend considering anti-theft devices or tracking technology.
Anyone with information about vehicle thefts is asked to contact the Chatham-Kent Police Service non-emergency line at 519-352-1234 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS.
