Temperatures Drop, Car Thefts Go Up
By: Danielle Todesco
Updated: January 17, 2008
We've had some cold temperatures the past few days and as always, folks start leaving their cars running unattended. But what most don't know is it's illegal.
The South Plains Auto Theft Task Force is raising awareness that you can be ticketed for leaving your car running while you're not there.
It's a Class 'C' misdemeanor and can get you up to a $500 dollar fine. But folks at the Task Force say, that's the least of your worries. You have a better chance of getting your car stolen. Officials are warning drivers that officers could start ticketing if the problem doesn't decline.
Kat Anderson, Auto Theft Task Force:
"I think we try to sympathize with the victims, but we also need to make it aware that it is a crime and we just have to make the public aware that they are going to start writing tickets."
Anderson says officials are starting to put up signs about the 'Unattended Motor Vehicle' law around town.
