Car thieves targeting RAM trucks north of Brampton

Police are sounding the alarm after several owners of Dodge RAM pickup trucks were targeted for vehicle thefts north of Brampton.

The Caledon OPP say eight RAM trucks have been stolen from the Bolton area in less than two weeks.

The thefts occurred between August 3 and August 15, and police say all of the trucks were taken from residential driveways between the hours of approximately 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m.

Police say the stolen trucks may be a case of “relay thefts,” which is when thieves are able to use equipment “to boost and exploit” the signals of a vehicle’s key fob.

“This allows for a thief to unlock and start an engine of a vehicle remotely,” police said.

Residents can help protect their vehicles by taking any of the following crime prevention measures:

• Ensure your vehicle keys are kept well away from doors and windows
• Use a signal blocking pouch/box – they can block your key fob from transmitting its code to the vehicle as the pouch is lined with layers or metallic material
• Turn off the keyless fob wireless signal at night (refer to your car manual for instructions)
• Use a steering wheel lock or car alarm – this could add a significantly delay or be a deterrent for thieves
• Consider a secondary audible car alarm – which works by using sensors placed in different points of your vehicle
• Park in the garage (if possible)
• Insert a car tracker – unusual activity is monitored, and car can be tracked using GPS if stolen

Police and insurance industry partners also want to raise public awareness about the opportunities for criminals who intend to steal personal identification from unsecured vehicles.

Licenses, insurance, vehicle ownerships, passports, as well as mobile devices or laptops, offer criminals the opportunity to further victimize individuals who do not lock their vehicles, or who leave their valuables in plain view.

Vehicle owners can do simple things to decrease the risk of being victimized, such as:

• Never leave a running vehicle unattended
• Lock your doors
• Roll up your windows
• Keep valuables out of sight
• Keep your registration and proof of insurance in your wallet or purse, not in the glove box
• Pocket your keys
• At night or during extended parking periods, always park in a well-lit area.

Anyone with information about the recent thefts or who witnesses unusual activity in theri community can contact the Caledon OPP at 905-284-2241. You can also contact Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.peelcrimestoppers.ca.