Report from Murdoch Police Station 9 September 2010

Irrespective of the circumstances, such crimes could make any victim’s blood boil at this sense of injustice.  A stolen vehicle can affect others in that household too i.e. those who rely on this sole source of transportation.  Plus, there is the hefty out-of-pocket-expenses to meet the insurance excess or repair bills if / when the car is recovered.

In past cases, victims have made it easier for criminals to steal motor vehicles - particularly when keys are left in the ignition and the motor left running while the driver ducks into a deli; or when drivers leaving their parked cars with valuables exposed and in clear view of passers-by; or unsecured doors or open windows of unoccupied cars; and even the huge risks of youngsters who are left unattended while mums or dads race into a shopping centre for that five minutes to grab something. Just a few examples of how apathy and indifference can lead to these incidents occurring.

Offenders generally use the vehicles to commit other crimes, including ram raids or burglaries; or, in other cases where high performance vehicles are targeted, these can be converted to take on a new look in a new market; or stripped down as parts for the used car supplies. These cases are generally investigated by Motor Squad.  Whenever ‘hot vehicle’ reports are received at the Police Operations Centre, alerts are broadcast immediately across the metropolitan area for the information of all patrols.

In the event of our people becoming engaged in a pursuit, the chase will be called by the passenger and this will be monitored and tracked by senior ranking officers at the Police Operations Centre.  Where available, our police helicopter will be deployed to track the movement of the fleeing vehicle; or stingers used to spike tyres in an attempt to end the chase.  Should the chase become too risky or exceeds operational guidelines, then the pursuit is aborted.  All this raises greater risks to police in protecting other road users and safeguarding cars from being stolen.

How can you help us out?  Adopt these proven strategies to reduce the chance of your vehicle being a target:

• Park your car off the street, preferably in your yard or in a locked garage.
• If you need to park on the street at night, ensure you park in a well lit area.
• It is an offence to leave your car keys in the ignition while your car is unattended.
• Close all windows and lock all doors before leaving your car.
• Remove any items from your car which may entice a thief.

The Murdoch Police Station is open Monday to Friday from 8.00am to 4.00pm but our officers patrol this area 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Please remember that if you need police assistance contact 131 444, or if you have information regarding any criminal activity contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 where your identity can remain confidential.  Save 000 for life threatening emergencies only.

Regards,

Sergeant Gerard O’Meara, Murdoch Police Station