Prince George’s County car thieves need just 20 seconds to ride off in stolen vehicle
Thieves steal car in Prince George's County in 20 seconds
Prince George's County police are warning people to lock their cars, noting that thieves can steal unattended vehicles in mere seconds.
PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY, Md. - Prince George’s County police are warning residents that thieves need mere seconds to ride off in unlocked, unattended cars.
READ MORE: Thieves need mere seconds to steal your car, Prince George’s County police warn
In a new surveillance video released by the police, a driver exits his car and, 20 seconds later, a suspected thief drives off in it.
According to police, the number of "jump-in" car thefts has sky-rocketed in the county.
READ MORE: Would-be Virginia car thieves thwarted by inability to drive stick, police say
In 2021, police recorded 610 jump-in. By this time last year, there were 388, according to police.
Police are reminding people to take the following precautions:
- Never leave children in a vehicle running unattended
Download the FOX 5 DC News App for Local Breaking News and Weather
- Push-to-start vehicles left running unattended can also be stolen
- Never leave your key fob in the vehicle
- Stay with your vehicle as you allow it to warm up