SALEM – Chief Joel Dolan reports that the Salem Police Department is investigating an increase in reported car thefts and break-ins in recent days.
During the past several nights, numerous motor vehicles have been broken into across Salem, with most of the thefts taking place in North Salem. In addition, several motor vehicles have been stolen in Salem and in neighboring communities.
In the early morning hours of Tuesday, Nov. 9, Salem Police recovered two stolen vehicles believed to be linked to these crimes. These investigations are active and ongoing, with numerous search warrants being sought in connection to the thefts.
“Our investigation has become much more difficult due to a new state law that went into effect in October,” said Capt. Jason Smith, Operations Support Commander. “Law enforcement cannot ask a stolen car’s owner for consent to search the vehicle, but must obtain a search warrant. This ill-conceived law creates an additional hurdle in collecting evidence and prolongs these investigations considerably.”
Salem Police are asking anyone with further information about these crimes, or who has camera images of these or other thefts, to assist in the investigation by calling Salem Police at 603-893-1911.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Salem Police remind vehicle owners to use common sense when parking and exiting their vehicle. Safety tips include:
- Take your keys. Don’t leave them in your vehicle.
- Close all windows and lock all doors.
- Never leave valuables in your vehicle. Anything stored inside your vehicle should be out of sight or in the trunk.
- 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. Park in visible areas where your vehicle is not hidden by foliage or larger vehicles. Install lights with motion sensors near where you park your vehicle.
- Double-check that your vehicle is locked and secured about 9 p.m. each night. This is known as the “9 p.m. Routine.”
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