Avoid Being a Victim, Don't Get Caught

CHARLES COUNTY - 11/16/2008

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Some people start their cars in the morning and return to their homes momentarily because nothing is worse than getting into a cold car on a cold winter’s morning. Nothing is worse that is, until the car is stolen. Car thefts often rise during winter months when thieves take advantage of the increase in vehicles left unattended with engines running and keys in the ignition. The Charles County Sheriff’s Office is reminding citizens that not only does leaving your running car unattended make it an easy theft target, but it is also against the law. Officers are on the lookout and may issue a citation when they counter such violations. The citations carry a $70 fine. “No one has the right to take another person’s car, but thieves are not concerned with doing what’s right,” said Sheriff Rex Coffey. “By eliminating the opportunity, we can prevent a lot of thefts.” For more safety tips, visit the Sheriff’s Office’s Web site, www.ccso.us.

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mulva 11/17/2008 at 1:18 PM What's Wrong With This Picture? So if my child left their bike out on the lawn and it was stolen,would I get fined for that? Reply to This Comment

motherof2 11/17/2008 at 2:12 PM confirm for me please Is it against the law to have your car runnig on your own property? Not that it is smart probably but I do have 2 little kids to keep warm in the mornings. Just want to make sure I have the law correct Reply to This Comment

mulva 11/17/2008 at 5:05 PM Also "By eliminating the opportunity, we can prevent a lot of thefts." So if I left my front(screen)door open to my home, is that a violation? It serves as an opportunity for thieves, correct? Perhaps I'm having a difficult time understanding the logic behind the fine because I'm not a thief, therefore I don't think like one. One thing is for certain however, Chuck County Sheriffs Department has bigger issues to deal with than this. Reply to This Comment

NotBornHere 11/18/2008 at 9:13 AM Always? I thought the remote start capability was OK. The engine dies if the car is put in gear without the key in the ignition. Why would starting the car this way and letting it warm up get me a fine? Besides, this is Charles County. Most times they just stick the gun in your face and take the keys anyway. And, if caught, will be out on bail before I get my car back from the impound lot. Reply to This Comment

dako 11/18/2008 at 12:06 PM I believe... ...The fine not because you did not deter a thief, but may be for a safety issue...a running vehicle without a driver securely behind the wheel...ie. belted in (it IS the law). Should someone enter the vehicle while it's running there is always the remote chance a gear shift can get bumped or caught on a purse, book bag, sachel, childs leg, coat...I could go on. Some shift levers are on the steering column and some are in the center console. Not everyone is driving a vehicle new enough that you must have the brake applied to get it in gear. As to the remote starter and key needed to move...well, I guess that would need to be contended in traffic court. Where's 'Copdad' when we need him the most? HA! Reply to This Comment

Homer77 11/18/2008 at 12:34 PM Hmmm How close to the car do I have to be to call the car "attended"? Or is this subject to whatever the officer wants to make up at that particular time? Reply to This Comment

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