RYE, NY (May 2, 2022) — The Rye Police Department has issued a statement asking residents to lock their car doors and not leave keys in the cars after a rash of auto thefts.
Since January 1, 2020, the City of Rye has had 71 vehicles stolen from resident’s driveways. All the vehicles were unlocked with the keys left inside.
Along with the stolen vehicles, Rye had 55 vehicles entered and property stolen, again all unlocked vehicles.
Since March 11, 2022, we have had 11 vehicles stolen.
The biggest concern is why those vehicles are being stolen, accord to Rye PD.
The vehicles stolen from Rye residents have been used to commit crimes in other jurisdictions. The suspects in the stolen car cases have proven they will not stop when a traffic stop is initiated by Officers. The suspects will engage in high-speed pursuits with little regard for public safety.
The cars have been recovered from Hartford, CT to Newark, New Jersey.
“We are asking the public for their assistance. Please lock your car doors and remove the key or key fob from your vehicle. Take personal property inside out of view,” said a Rye PD spokesperson.
“This year we have had 4 vehicles stolen in broad daylight on two separate Sunday afternoons. In video obtained by the police, the subjects are usually dressed in black from head to toe with their faces covered and wearing work gloves. Patrol Units are aware of the current rise in crime but need the community’s assistance.”