MSP Crack Down On Unattended Cars To Prevent Theft - WMDT 47 News - Delmarva's Choice

MSP Crack Down On Unattended Cars To Prevent Theft

MARYLAND - If you're one of many people that leaves their cars unattended, whether it's at home or the store, Maryland State Police are now cracking down.

"We're certainly not going to be banging on people's front doors when they're warming their car up in the morning to get it warm to go to work, and say 'hey we're going to write you a ticket for $70 and give you a point. That's not what we're about and what this is for," said Sgt. Jenean Lawson with Maryland State Police Salisbury Barrack.

Last year, there were 165 car thefts in the Worcester, Wicomico, Somerset county area. Troopers say that's why they're cracking down. If your car is left idle in the parking lot of a store, on the side of a busy street, or even a gas station, you could get a ticket. Many local residents say they didn't even know about the law.

"If they see a car running and nobody is in it, they ought to get a ticket for it," said local resident John Huffman.

"I don't think you should get points. That is going to make your insurance go up. I don't agree with that.," said Jerry Hughes of Princess Anne.

"I also would think the state is trying to generate revenue. I think its a little excessive," said Kimberly Miller of Princess Anne.

Police say a remote start, keyless entry, and a mechanical anti-theft device are good options to have, to help avoid theft.