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Hyattsville, Md. Fights Car Theft
By Philip Dzikiy, TheWorldJournal.com

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Prince George's County has a history of problems involving car theft, and the Hyattsville Police Department is trying to combat this in many ways.

According to Hyattsville Police Lt. Steve Walker, Prince George's County has more car theft then all surrounding counties combined. Walker refers to car theft in the county as an "epidemic."

No one really knows all the causes of car theft, but Walker cited the economy as one major concern. He said getting more jobs in Hyattsville is a simple answer to a complex issue. He also believes Prince George's County court system has something to do with it.

"(Prince George's) courts aren't as harsh as other areas," Walker said. "There is less punishment on car thieves due to overcrowding in the jails."

Walker said many steps are being taken to decrease car theft, and they seem to be working, as most areas of Hyattsville are already seeing reductions this year. In areas where the police have recovered many autos in the past, task forces have been set up. These task forces stop cars and check their tags. This has proved to be successful.

Another step the police are taking is a constant review of previous incidents and statistics, which is another key in car theft prevention, Walker said.

The biggest problem areas for car theft in the city are at the Metro station and around areas of business, and Walker said stolen cars often turn up around public schools.

Walker warns residents to be aware of their surroundings. He also said many cars are stolen when people go into a store and leave their car running outside. This is an especially big problem during the winter season. Walker also recommends parking in a driveway, if possible.

© February 24, 2003

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