Barrie police continue to be kept busy with vehicle thefts.
Since the beginning of June, city police have investigated the theft of five motor vehicles, one closed utility trailer and an e-bike.
Police say thieves recently targeted two RAM pickups, a Ford F-150, a Lexus RX350 and a Hyundai Elantra.
"If you own one of these motor vehicles, or any other vehicle that has been identified as popular amongst thieves, you are strongly encouraged to consider using a steering wheel lock, a wheel/tire lock or boot, consider installing an aftermarket ignition immobilizer and if you are a resident of Barrie, you can attend Barrie Police Headquarters, show your driver’s licence, and obtain a Faraday bag for your key fobs," police stated in a release.
Last month, Barrie police announced a new partnership with South Simcoe police in an effort to curb vehicle thefts. The two local police departments joined forces to distribute 10,000 Faraday bags, which are small pouches made of conductive metallic fabric that blocks signals from reaching whatever is inside. In this case, the key fob for the vehicle.
As for steering wheel locking devices, those aren't always fool-proof, either. On May 30, Letitia Heights resident awoke Thursday morning to find his pickup truck had been stolen despite utilizing such a device. It had been cut in half and discarded in the driveway as the thief drove away with the man's 2022 Ram 1500.
Although the June investigations remain ongoing, police say it appears opportunistic thieves who have visited Barrie in the past, or their "associates," are back.
"Organized crime has no place in our community and police are asking the public to be aware of people around them at all times," stated the release.
"If you see someone who you do not recognize or someone who appears to be out of place and they are near your vehicle, or a neighbours vehicle, whether it be parked in your driveway, out in front of your house or a parking lot, please call police immediately," say police. "Your call could be the difference between a theft happening or potentially taking place in the future."
Police encourage people to get a description of the person or people, as well as a licence plate number of any vehicle they are driving.
If you are unable to park your vehicle in your garage, police also suggest installing or redirecting home security cameras, blocking vehicles with another car or simply keeping your outside lights on overnight.
