More than 80 percent of car thefts last month occurred at car lots, repair shops

The Oakie Dokey used car dealership was one of several hit by car thieves in the past month. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Rochester Police say five of six motor vehicle thefts in the city over the past month were stolen from city auto dealerships or auto body and repair shops.

All of the cases are open and active, said Rochester Police Capt. Todd Pinkham, who added it's unclear whether any of the cases are related.

At least one of the incidents involved a vehicle at the Okie Dokie dealership on Flat Rock Bridge Road, Pinkham added.

A Rochester man, Adam Freeman, 25, of Rochester Hill Road, was charged on Sunday with receiving stolen property in connection with the case. Police say the vehicle was stolen the day before, but Freeman hasn't been charged with theft yet.

Due to the ongoing probe, Pinkham said he couldn't release the other dealerships and repair shops that were hit. The sixth stolen car was stolen from a storage unit.

Police took the opportunity today to offer the following tips to help possibly prevent you from falling victim to this crime.

1. Keep your vehicles locked at all times, even when you are in it
2. Be sure to remove your keys from the ignition when you exit your vehicle and do not leave your keys under the seat, in the visor, in the center console or anywhere else inside the vehicle. Take the keys with you when you are not in it.
3. Make sure vehicle windows are all the way up, not cracked, and your sunroof is closed.
4. Do not leave your vehicle running while unattended. This includes warming up in your driveway, running into the store, or dropping something off at a friends house. Shut your vehicle off and take your keys with you.
5. Park the vehicle in lit areas whenever possible. Also look around for any security/surveillance cameras in the areas and park there when possible.
6. Install motion lights where your vehicle is parked.
7. Keep keys inside and locked up; don't leave them in an unlocked or easily accessible garage or shed. Be sure to lock all doors and windows to garages and sheds as well.
8. Invest in some type of anti-theft device, surveillance and/or On-Star type service.
9. Don't leave anything of value in the open or even in the vehicle. Don't give someone a reason to want to break into your vehicle.
10. Report any stolen vehicles and stolen license plates to Police

Police are asking that anyone who may have any information pertaining to any motor vehicle thefts in the area contact them at 603-330-7128. You can also provide information and remain anonymous by calling the Rochester Crime Line at 603-335-6500 or Text to: CRIMES (274637) Body of Text: TEXT4CASH + your tip. Cash rewards are offered for information that leads to an arrest.