Hanson Police Department Reminds Residents to Lock Vehicles Following Recent Theft

HANSON — Chief Michael Casey and the Hanson Police Department are reminding residents to lock their vehicles and secure belongings after a recent motor vehicle theft in town. 

On Wednesday, Sept. 17, at approximately 3:39 a.m., officers responded to Gorwin Drive for a report of a stolen vehicle. The case remains under investigation.

Hanson Police are also working with law enforcement in neighboring communities that have seen an increase in similar activity.

“Unfortunately, these types of thefts are often crimes of opportunity,” said Chief Casey. “When vehicles are left unlocked, especially with the keys inside or valuables in plain view, they become easy targets. We want residents to take simple steps each night to protect their property and help us deter this activity.”

The Hanson Police Department would like to offer the following safety tips from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to help residents protect themselves:

When parking your vehicle:

• Take your keys. Don’t leave them in your vehicle.
• Close all windows and lock all doors.
• Never leave valuables in your vehicle, and if you do, make sure they are out of sight.
• Never leave credit cards/debit cards, cash or your wallet or purse inside of your vehicle overnight.
• Park in well-lit areas or preferably inside a garage, if possible. Install lights with motion sensors near where you park your vehicle.
• Get in the routine of double-checking that your vehicle is locked and secure each night around 9 p.m. This is known as the “9 p.m. Routine.”

If your vehicle has been stolen or broken into, follow these steps:

• Call 911 to report a vehicle theft or break-in. A copy of the police report and/or a case number will be needed to provide to your insurance company.
• You may be asked to provide the license plate number, make, model and color of the car, the VIN number and any identifying characteristics.
• Contact your insurance company to file a claim within 24 hours of when you discover your vehicle was stolen or broken into.
• If you find your vehicle before authorities, contact the police immediately and then your insurance company.

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