Waterbury police are proactively addressing “warm-up” car thefts

WATERBURY, CT (WFSB) – A recent drop in early morning temperatures has law enforcement in Waterbury scrambling to help commuters avoid “warm-up” thefts.

They are advising residents to lock their vehicles while they warm them up for the day ahead.

“For everyone who goes to work. I have a teacher next to me. I have a general contractor next door. Yes, most of the neighborhood is out in the morning,” said Kevin Mozdy, who lives in the city.

“We have seen time and time again that when individuals leave their car with the keys running, it is a crime of opportunity. People walk around looking for situations like this. It’s a quick chance to jump in the vehicle and take off,” said Waterbury Police Lt. Ryan Bessette.

There are many ways to avoid this type of theft and make you less vulnerable.

“Look at a car starter or if you can sit in your vehicle for a few extra minutes before you drive off,” he continued.

It is also recommended to keep valuables out of sight.

Ron Cappuccetti says that just a few years ago, he and his neighbor were warming up their cars side by side when disaster struck.

“I warmed up my car and drove off. When I got home, my neighbor went ahead and told me that after I left, someone jumped in their car and left. So yes, it happens,” he said.

As the old saying goes: See something, say something.

“Be a good neighbor. If you happen to see a suspicious vehicle in the early morning hours that you don’t normally see in your neighborhood, if it’s on the road or lurking in the neighborhood, call the police,” Bessette said.

The department takes auto theft very seriously as it has an auto theft task force and attempts to take proactive measures to prevent this crime.

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