Decatur Chief Responds to Auto Theft Story

Decatur Police Chief Mike Booker asked Decatur Patch to run this response to a story that ran today

In looking over the reports in reference to stolen cars I was wanting to give a brief statement and pass along a few safety tips/reminders in regards to stolen vehicles.

It does appear as though we have had seven incidents occur during a time period from July 10th-20th.  They appear to be at various locations throughout the city but it was noted that several cars (4) were taken from either apartment or condo parking lots.  Of the seven taken four still have not been located but three have been recovered at various locations outside the City of Decatur.  We are working with other jurisdictions in regards to the various thefts. 

I just wanted to send out some tips/reminders for you all to look at. 

I would say look at exterior motion activated lights.  They only come on if needed and when they do come on please take note and don’t just assume that it may be some sort of animal causing the light to activate.  If you do see or hear something suspicious please call us and let us check it out for you.

Also, if you notice any unknown vehicles continually circling your complex multiple times please call us immediately and let one of our officers check it out.   They may be checking out the area or they may be lost, either way we can look in to it for you. 

Please don’t leave valuables in your car, especially keys that may fit another car or fit the lock of your homes. If you own more than one car park the first car and then park your second car closely behind it to make it harder for someone to drive it out. There are a lot of vehicles that are front wheel drive so by parking the car front first instead of backing it in may make it harder for someone to take if they are stealing them by use of a tow truck.

Also if you have a garage and it can be utilized, park your vehicle inside. If you do hear something in the night outside pay close attention and call us just as soon as you hear it. We will respond quickly and in a quiet manner and lastly be good neighbors by looking out for each other. 

Please know that we are aware and are doing our best to curtail the problem.  These are just a few safety precautions that we wanted to pass along.  I wanted to send something out to you all and let you know that we are out there every night and every day and if you need us please don’t hesitate to call.  We just need you to help point us in the right direction and we will take it from there. 

Thanks again,

Mike Booker

City of Decatur Police Chief