Recently several vehicles in the Hamilton area have been stolen after drivers have left the keys with the vehicle or in the ignition, ‘warming the car up.’ Hamilton Police are reminding vehicle owners the number one theft deterrent for an automobile is to remove the keys and lock the vehicle when left unattended.

On Monday, February 25, 2019, shortly before 9:00 a.m., Hamilton Police received information regarding a vehicle theft in the area of Macintosh Drive and Spartan Avenue. At that time the victim reported leaving the vehicle, a 2004 Hyundai Elantra, in the driveway, with the keys in the ignition and the motor running. It is believed the vehicle was stolen within a 10-minute window.

On Wednesday, February 27, 2019, shortly after 2:30 p.m. police were conducting proactive checks in various designated downtown areas. During that time, a vehicle was observed driving erratically on East Avenue near Main Street East. Despite the poor road conditions caused by the snowfall, the operator of the vehicle continued to manoeuvre through the streets at a high rate of speed swerving through multiple lanes and ‘fishtailing’. Police continued to follow the vehicle and now activated their emergency lights. The driver stopped the vehicle in an alleyway in the area of Emerald Street and Main Street East. Police positioned their vehicle to prevent the subject car from continuing.

As police approached the vehicle they noted a lone male occupant. Through investigation, it was determined the vehicle was, in fact, the Hyundai Elantra which had been reported stolen to police.

The driver, a 17-year- old Hamilton male was arrested for possession of stolen property. He was transported to police custody and later released to his parent. He will appear in court on Friday, April 5, 2019, to answer to the charge.

CHARGED

• Male. 17-year-of-age from Hamilton

CHARGES

• Possession of stolen property over $5000.00

A professional thief can steal a vehicle without keys within a minute. A rookie thief can steal a vehicle with in the keys in the ignition within seconds.