Vehicle Burglary/Theft Prevention

In 2017, the City of Moline received over 200 reports of burglaries/thefts from motor vehicles.  In most cases, the victim's vehicle was left unlocked.  In the cases where entry was forced, valuables or other targeted items were often left in plain view.  Discovering your vehicle has been burglarized can be a horrible feeling.  You don't just lose your belongings; you lose your sense of security and privacy.  These quick, easy steps can deter thieves from stealing your items:

1.) Always lock your car doors 
2.) Don't leave valuables in plain view
3.) Park in well-lit areas 
4.) Report any suspicious activity to police

"Lock It Up" Initiative

Starting in 2016, the Quad Cities region began experiencing a spike in stolen vehicles. In 2016 and the first quarter of 2017, Quad Cities law enforcement agencies have received reports of approximately 750 stolen vehicles.  The Quad Cities law enforcement community is working together in a collaborative effort of sharing information, strategies and resources to combat this growing issue.

The vast majority of the reported car thefts have been crimes of opportunity, where vehicles are left running unattended, or unlocked with keys inside.  These thefts are not limited to certain cities or neighborhoods; they can occur anywhere.  Many of the suspects are juveniles, some as young as 11 or 12 years old.  These stolen vehicles are being used to commit thefts, burglaries, shootings and other crimes.  Usually, the vehicles will flee from law enforcement, driving recklessly and putting the members of our community and their property in serious danger.  Too often, these stolen cars end up involved in hit-and-run crashes.

In order to combat this growing trend, the Moline Police Department wants to encourage citizens and visitors to take the following steps to deter these thefts and hopefully keep themselves from becoming a victim:

• Always lock your car doors.
• Do not leave your car keys in your car, even if it is locked.
• Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to police.
• Do not, under ANY circumstances, leave your car running unattended.  Most thefts take less than 10 seconds.
  • Even cars that require a key fob/push button start can be stolen if left running unattended.