Ludlow Police Encourage Community to Take Steps to Protect Property, Prevent Motor Vehicle Break-Ins 

LUDLOW — Ludlow Police are encouraging community members to lock their vehicle doors and to take precautions to protect their property amid an uptick in reports of motor vehicle break-ins and thefts in recent weeks. 

The vast majority of motor vehicle break ins both in Ludlow and statewide occur in vehicles that are left unlocked. Thieves are also known to target vehicles in which valuables can be seen. 

“A few easy, common-sense measures can make it far less likely that your vehicle will be broken into or stolen,” said Acting Chief Michael Brennan. “We’re asking the community take these steps so we can reduce crime in Ludlow.”

Ludlow Police would also like to alert residents to security vulnerabilities in some Kia and Hyundai vehicles, which have been targeted by thieves nationwide. Certain Kia and Hyundai vehicles have vulnerabilities in their ignition systems, and manufacturers have offered software updates and even reimbursement for anti-theft devices to consumers. Owners of Kia and Hyundai vehicles should check with the vehicle manufacturers for recalls and more information to ensure their vehicles are secure.

Ludlow Police are boosting patrols in areas where motor vehicles break-ins and thefts have been reported, and are also encouraging community members to take the following steps to protect themselves and their property. 

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 Ludlow Police at 413-583-8305 to report a past vehicle theft or break-in. Only call 911 to report an ongoing emergency.
• 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. A copy of the police report and/or a case number will be needed to provide to your insurance company.
• If you find your vehicle before authorities, contact the police immediately and then your insurance company.