Columbia Police encourage residents to always lock their car doors

Due to a recent uptick in car thefts, Columbia Police is encouraging residents to take the proper precautions to protect their personal property.

Car theft is one of many forms of larceny that is recorded in the Uniform Crime Report. 

Since January, the Columbia Police Department has reported more than 500 incidents of theft from motor vehicles that have occurred through November 2020. 

In addition, the theft of vehicle parts and accessories accounts for 210 of the offenses committed.

"It is important that residents get into the routine of locking their doors, taking valuables out of their vehicle and avoiding leaving their car running and unattended," said CPD Det. Anthony Bowne. "If you see someone looking into car windows, do not approach or follow the person. Instead, call the non-emergency number, 311."

In total, there have been 1,820 larcenies reported in Columbia through November 2020. To see an interactive version of this data please visit the Missouri State Highway Patrol Criminal Justice Information Service website.