Richmond RCMP is highlighting Auto Crime Enforcement Month this April by reminding residents to take steps to secure their vehicles and protect valuables from theft. As part of this province-wide initiative, Richmond RCMP will increase community engagement and patrols, with a focus on reducing theft from and of vehicles.
Thanks in part to ongoing targeted enforcement efforts and public education, theft from vehicles is down 36% in 2024 from 2023. Despite this progress, Richmond RCMP officers continue to see common items such as tools, wallets, and sunglasses stolen from vehicles. Anything visible may be a target for thieves regardless of worth, including loose change or cables.
Proactive policing and partnerships
Richmond RCMP supports the Lock Out Auto Crime (LOAC) program in partnership with ICBC. Richmond RCMP community volunteers inspect parked vehicles and leave educational notices informing vehicle owners on how to reduce their risk of theft. To learn more about this initiative, visit the RCMP LOAC page . For more information on volunteer opportunities with Richmond RCMP, visit our website.
Additionally, Richmond employs the Bait Car Program, a high-tech initiative managed by the Integrated Municipal Provincial Auto Crime Team (IMPACT). These vehicles are monitored in real time, and once stolen, police can remotely track and disable the engine in order to execute a quick arrest.
7 Tips to protect your vehicle
- Always remove your keys and lock your doors.
- Don’t leave valuables in plain sight—even small items may attract thieves.
- Never leave garage openers or spare keys in the car—these can be used by thieves to gain access to your residence.
- Park in well-lit, high-traffic areas.
- Consider using a smart tag or similar tracking device to help locate your vehicle if it’s stolen.
- Older vehicles should use extra protection such as a steering wheel lock or immobilizer.
- Never leave cars running alone during colder months to warm them up.
“We are committed to reducing property crime through innovation, education, and community partnership,
” says Corporal Ryan Lee, Richmond RCMP Property Crime Unit. “Auto Crime Enforcement Month is a reminder that simple preventative actions can have a big impact.
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