Hello Resident Securing your vehicle is a top priority for West Midlands Police (WMP) in early 2026, especially in areas like Stoke and Wyken. , where opportunistic theft remains a concern. While overall vehicle crime in the region fell by 16% over the last year, West Midlands Police continues to urge residents to remain vigilant against avoidable thefts from motor vehicles. Why You Should Never Leave Valuables in Your Car Thieves are often looking for a "quick win" and will target any item that can be easily sold for cash. Irresistible Targets: Items like mobile phones, sunglasses, loose change, and even medication can attract a thief. The Cost of Entry: WMP reminds drivers that the cost of replacing a smashed window often far exceeds the value of the items stolen. Van Crime: For those in trade, West Midlands Police highlights that vans are prime targets for high-value tool theft, particularly when left overnight. Hidden Clues That Attract Thieves Even if your valuables are out of sight, you may still be leaving clues that they are stored in the car: Suction Marks: Marks on the windscreen from sat-nav or phone holders suggest the device might be hidden in the glove box or under the seat. Charging Cables: Leaving USB cables on display signal that expensive tech is nearby. Wing Mirror Indicators: Thieves in local car parks in and around Coventry, look for unfolded wing mirrors as a sign that a car has been left unlocked. The "Lock, Take, Hide" Approach WMP encourages a simple three-step habit to protect your vehicle: Lock: Ensure all doors, windows, and the sunroof are closed. Always manually check the handle, as West Midlands Police warns that criminals may use signal jammers to prevent your key fob from working. Take: Take all bags, wallets, and mobile devices with you. Never leave registration or insurance documents in the car, as these can help a thief sell your vehicle more easily. Hide: If you must leave something behind, hide it in the boot before you arrive at your destination to ensure no one sees where you've put it. Proactive Local Policing in 2026 In January 2026 alone, West Midlands Police made over 340 arrests related to burglary and vehicle crime. In Coventry, police have increased high-visibility patrols and are using tools like WMNow to provide residents with real-time alerts on local crime trends. For those looking for extra protection, West Midlands Police recommends parking in Park Mark certified car parks, which have been vetted for security. If you'd like, I can help you find: . Information on signal-blocking pouches for keyless cars. Property marking events hosted by your local neighbourhood team. Thank you | 
