APD Reminds the Public not to Warmup Vehicles

Wed. Dec. 29, 2021

ALBUQUERQUE – The Albuquerque Police Department wants to remind the public not to leave vehicles running and unattended in an attempt to warm them up. Auto thieves often target warm-up vehicles during cold mornings.

The weather in Albuquerque has been unseasonably warm this year, and there have been fewer reports of warm-up auto thefts. However, temperatures are dropping as storms move into the metro area.

Drivers are advised to lock their doors once they are inside their vehicles and carefully pull out of their parking spot. Most vehicles will warm up quickly while you are driving. Additionally, it’s important to take all valuables out of your car or place them out of site, preferably in the trunk.

Auto Warmup Thefts:

December 2018: 29

December 2019: 22

December 2020: 17

December 2021: 12