Police investigating license plate thefts in Woodbridge

A northern Virginia man woke up to find his license plate stolen from his car in Woodbridge last week.

WOODBRIDGE, Va. (FOX 5 DC) - In northern Virginia, a man woke up to find his license plate stolen from his car. The unusual theft took place last Friday in Woodbridge.

Prince William County police say the theft happened in the Holly Forest neighborhood near Holly Forest Drive between Happy Creek Road and Acer Court.

This particular theft, license plate swiping, can happen anywhere.

Police say the crooks typically steal license plates to put on stolen cars. The thieves reportedly seek out license plates on cars similar to the stolen car. Other motives for stealing license plates also include if the thief is driving without a license or driving without insurance, so when police run the plate it’s clear.

Police are giving concerned residents advice on how to avoid becoming a victim, including making sure cars are parked in well-lit areas and ensuring all four screws are tightly screwed on the license plate.

The penalty for stealing license plates includes a $2,500 fine and a misdemeanor charge.