Thefts from vehicles and vehicle theft
Monthly maps of thefts from vehicles and vehicle theft in Minnetonka
Theft from Vehicle
Theft from vehicle is one of Minnetonka’s most persistent problems. It involves the theft of valuables from a vehicle and often occurs in business parking lots, as well as driveways or garages. Thieves will often break windows or punch locks to gain entry, but will also enter unlocked vehicles that contain valuables in plain view. Some common targets are stereos, laptops, compact discs, and purses or wallets.
“Prevent Theft from Vehicle” signs
The Minnetonka Police Department has “Prevent Theft from Vehicle” signs available for sale and posting on private property in Minnetonka. These signs, which measure 12″x15″ and say “Prevent Theft Remove Valuables from Vehicles,” are ideal for businesses, condos, townhomes, apartments, churches or any other property with a parking lot that is vulnerable to thefts from vehicles. Cost is $15 per sign. The Minnetonka Police Department is offering these signs in order to provide a consistent message throughout the city. To purchase a sign, call Nicole Nelson, crime prevention analyst, at 952.939.8546.
Prevention tips
- Theft from vehicles is one of the most easily prevented crimes. Do not leave valuables in plain view in your car, no matter where you park. It only takes a few seconds for a thief to smash your window and grab whatever is visible.
- Take all valuables with you or place them in your trunk—if possible, before reaching your destination.
- Lock your car and park in a well-lit parking lot.
- Report any suspicious activity that you see in parking lots or your neighborhood.
Vehicle Theft
Vehicle theft is the unauthorized use of any type of vehicle, whether it is personal, recreational, or commercial.
Prevention tips
- Always lock your car and park in a well-lit, easily visible area.
- Never leave your car running while unattended.
- Keep your vehicle identification number (VIN), as well as other specific vehicle information in a safe place at home so you can give it to officers if your vehicle is ever stolen.
- Use anti-theft devices such as steering wheel locks or alarms.
How businesses can help
Businesses can lower the risk of theft from vehicle in their parking lot by:
- Offering coat check to customers, including safe storage for personal items such as laptops and other valuables.
- Assign staff to walk through the parking lot at various times of the day to look for people that are loitering around vehicles or looking in windows.
- If you have a video surveillance system ensure that it is in proper working order and that cameras are recording quality images.
- Post a sign for your customers asking them to remove valuables from their vehicle. The Minnetonka Police Department offers pre-made laminated signs to businesses upon request by calling Nicole Nelson at 952.939.8546.
