Crime prevention cops in the 109th Precinct have noticed an uptick in car thefts in northeast Queens – and that car thieves are targeting certain makes and models. The top five on the hit parade of hot cars right now are:
1. Toyota Highlander;
2. Toyota RAV4;
3. Ford Econoline;
4. Honda Civic/Accord;
5. Dodge Caravan.
Further, rim-and-tire thieves are especially targeting Infiniti and Nissan Ultima/Maxima vehicles.
What you can do to deter theft, cops say, is to get and use a car alarm, day or night. You should always park in a well lit area, or better yet, if you have a garage, use it.
“The most valuable tool we have is the public calling 9-1-1,” said Police Officer Anthony LoVerme of the 109th Precinct. “If you see suspicious tow truck activity, or unfamiliar cars parked with people inside, call it in to 9-1-1 and remember – you can remain anonymous,” he added.
By etching the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on often-stolen car parts and other items such as bicycles, cameras, laptops, etc., they become more easily traced and therefore less attractive to thieves, LoVerme also said.
On Saturday, June 5, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., there will be a free VIN etching program at The Bay Terrace shopping center upper level, near Tony Roma’s. Enter at 26th Avenue and 212th Street.
Community members are invited, courtesy of the 109th Precinct Community Council, Bay Terrace Community Alliance, Broadway-Flushing Homeowner’s Association and the East Flushing Civic Association.
For more information call 109th Precinct Crime Prevention Officer Anthony LoVerme at 718-321-2270.
