Reminder!

Do not leave children unattended in cars for even a second, tragedy can strike.

Today two young children were left in a running car with the keys in it right outside of one of the local kosher food establishments. It only takes one second for someone to jump in and take off with the children inside. There have been a rash of stolen cars, never leave children unattended in a car, not even for one second while you are “running in”.

From University Heights Councilmembers Michele Weiss and Mark Wiseman:

To all residents.  Since the beginning of November there have been 6 auto thefts and most recently a member of our community has been robbed at gunpoint and car stolen.  The local police departments are looking into suspects and are taking steps to insure our safety.  Please take the following preventative measures:

1. Always lock your car door
2. Do not leave valuables in the car
3. Do not leave your car while at a gas station unlocked or running

Thank you

Michele Weiss & Mark Wiseman

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From Jim Hartnett, Federation’s Director of Community-Wide Security:

Beachwood, University Heights and surrounding communities have been experiencing an increase in stolen autos, thefts from vehicles and in one recent instance an armed carjacking. Our area police are working in close coordination with each other to combat this type activity. Last year around the holiday season there were several instances where criminals used a vehicle to “Bump and Rob” a victim including one at Menorah Park. This is a common method criminals use to steal a car. It works like this: a car, usually with a driver and at least one passenger, bumps the rear of your car in traffic. You stop; get out to check for damage and exchange information. Then either the driver or one of the passengers (partners) jumps into your car and drives off. Women seem to be targeted more often than men for this type of crime.

Area police departments are recommending community members remember the following:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Lock your vehicles at ALL times
• Secure your home and garage at ALL times and do not leave valuables outside
• Do not leave keys in unattended vehicles while warming them up or otherwise
• If you are confronted by a carjacker who is armed or if the criminal is violently agitated, excited or angry give up your car keys and car and leave the scene (you can get another car but not another life). If in the auto, get out quickly; leave the keys, pocketbook, etc., and leave the area immediately.
• Be on the lookout for, and REPORT ANY SUSPICIOUS PERSONS OR ACTIVITIES IMMEDIATELY

Criminal or suspicious activity should immediately be reported by dialing 9-1-1.