Mantua is among local communities hit recently with a string of vehicle burglaries and thefts.
Even Mayor Robert Zimmerman isn’t immune. Thieves tried to steal a vehicle from his own driveway, Sewell section of town off Center Street.
“On a recent morning at about 3:30 a.m.,” he recounted, “someone attempted to steal my personal vehicle from my driveway in the Sewell section of town. This was the second time in less than a year that perpetrators tried to enter vehicles parked in my driveway in the wee hours of the morning.
“This should be a stark reminder that no one is immune to crime and that we all need to stay vigilant,” Zimmerman added. “My family locks our cars religiously, which prevented us from falling victim to these wrongdoers on both occasions.”
The thieves in question – so far unidentified – are showing up in area neighborhoods in search of unlocked vehicles. Police say they are likely to steal whatever is inside, as well as making off with the vehicle itself.
Both the mayor and police are urging residents to lock their vehicles.
“People, please lock your car doors,” warned Police Chief Darren White. “It will save us and you a huge headache. These people walk car to car and check car doors. That’s all they’re doing. They’re not breaking into them. They’re just checking the car doors for unlocked doors and taking all they can for the most part.”
Summer is a busy time for vehicle thefts, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The agency urges drivers to take several common-sense measures to reduce the risk of their car being stolen, including the following steps:
- Close and lock all windows after parking.
- Take the key instead of leaving it in or on the vehicle.
- Park in well-lit areas, if possible.
- Do not leave valuables in the vehicle, especially if they can be seen from outside.
“Simple steps can help prevent your vehicles from being stolen or burglarized,” said Zimmerman.
Victims of car theft should report the crime to 911 immediately.
