Washington Township police warn of rise in vehicle thefts, urge residents to lock cars and remove keys
WASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Warren County) — The Washington Township Police Department is warning residents about a recent surge in vehicle burglaries and thefts, citing a familiar and preventable pattern: unlocked vehicles with keys or fobs left inside.
In a public safety announcement issued this week, police expressed frustration with the ongoing incidents, emphasizing that these crimes are entirely avoidable.
“Let me be clear — these crimes are 100% preventable,” the department said. “Yet we’re still seeing vehicles left wide open with the keys practically gift-wrapped for thieves.”
Local, county, and state law enforcement agencies are coordinating efforts to address the uptick, but officials say real progress depends on community cooperation.
Police are urging residents to take the following basic but critical steps:
- Lock all vehicles
- Remove keys and key fobs from inside cars
- Ensure home security cameras are operational
“If you don’t have cameras, now’s a good time to invest in them — especially if you’re still leaving your vehicle unlocked with the key inside,” the department added. “At this point, it’s not just risky, it’s reckless.”
Authorities are also encouraging residents to spread the word, especially to neighbors who may not use social media. “Talk to the ones who aren’t online. Bring it up at your next block party or community meeting,” the department said. “This has gone on long enough.”
