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Police News
Fredericton Police report a recent surge in vehicle thefts and urge residents and visitors to lock their vehicles. Most stolen vehicles are used to commit other crimes, which can put public safety at risk, making it crucial to take preventative measures.
Being the victim of vehicle theft is more than an inconvenience—it’s an invasion. Protect yourself by following these guidelines.
Protect Your Property:
- Lock Up: Ensure vehicles and residences are locked at all times when parked.
- Remove Keys/Fobs: Ensure all sets of keys/fobs are removed from your vehicle when parked.
- Secure Keys/Fobs: Don’t keep your keys/fobs near your entryway or a window.
- Thieves use devices to capture and replicate your vehicle’s unique frequency for key fob signals.
- Devices can amplify key fob signals from inside a building to unlock and start cars outside, especially with keyless entry systems.
- Thieves will break into residences to access keys/fobs.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Report any suspicious people or activity around vehicles or residences to police.
- Immediate Reporting: Call 911 immediately if you observe erratic driving or vehicles in non-designated areas such as walking trails or sidewalks.
- Never Leave Vehicles Running: Never leave your vehicle running and unattended, even for a moment. It takes seconds for a thief to hop in and drive off.
Statistics:
- 126 vehicles have been reported stolen since January 1, 2024.
- Of the 126 stolen vehicles reported to police:
- 55 vehicles the doors were left unlocked when unattended.
- 38 vehicles had the keys in the vehicle when stolen.
We urge all residents and visitors to take these precautions seriously. By working together, we can reduce vehicle thefts and enhance public safety in Fredericton.
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Sonya Gilks
Public Information Officer
Fredericton Police Force
fpf.media@fredericton.ca