There has been an increase in car break-ins in Lower Merion Township this year. Police reported a rise in incidents starting in February, and these break-ins continue to occur.
Dealing with these incidents can be stressful and frustrating. Here, we explain the law regarding car break-ins, what you can do to prevent break-ins, and the steps to take if your car is targeted.
Lower Merion Car Break-Ins
Car break-ins often occur at night, with perpetrators typically targeting unlocked vehicles. They may break windows or force doors open to steal valuables inside.
Understanding these patterns can help you take precautions to protect your vehicle.
What If My Car Has Been Broken Into?
Finding your car has been damaged and you are missing property can be devastating. Stay calm, and try to follow these steps:
Approach Cautiously
Once you notice your car has been broken into, you should remain calm and approach slowly. Once you know the thief is gone, you can get closer.
Take Photos & Document the Damage
Get photos of your car and the surrounding area. Make sure to show what was damaged, like a smashed window or pried-on door. This is useful evidence for law enforcement and your insurance alike.
Take Stock of Missing Items
Look to see if anything was taken. Sometimes, a thief will rifle through your things and move on. However, it’s likely they broke in because they spotted something they think is valuable. Make a list of anything missing to show to police or your insurer.
File a Police Report
You need the break-in on the record. Call your local police department, like the Lower Merion Township Police Department. A responding officer can take your statement, investigate the scene, and work on catching the perpetrator. If nothing else, you will have documentation to give to your insurer.
Call Your Insurance Company
Calling your representative is one of the most crucial steps to getting back to normal. Answer your company’s questions.
Tips for Preventing Car Break-Ins
- Lock Your Vehicle: Always lock your car, even if you’re just stepping away for a moment. Many break-ins happen because the vehicle is left unlocked.
- Remove Valuables: Don’t leave valuables in plain sight. Store items like bags, electronics, and other valuables out of sight or take them with you.
- Park in Well-Lit Areas: Parking your car in well-lit areas or places with high foot traffic can deter criminals. Consider parking under streetlights or in busy parking lots.
- Install Security Cameras: Home security cameras or dash cams can help monitor your vehicle and provide evidence if a break-in occurs. Visible cameras can also act as a deterrent.
What Are the Potential Charges for Car Break-Ins?
If someone breaks into a car in Lower Merrion Township, they face serious criminal charges, including theft, burglary, and vandalism.
- Theft from a Motor Vehicle: This charge applies when someone steals or attempts to steal items from a car. It often involves damaging the vehicle to gain entry.
- Unauthorized Use of Automobile & Other Vehicles: This charge applies when someone breaks in and driving away with your car. It’s commonly called joyriding.
- Vandalism: Damaging a vehicle during a break-in can also lead to vandalism charges.
How Is a Car Break-In Charged & Penalized in PA?
Theft charges in Pennsylvania can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the circumstances.
- Misdemeanor Theft Charges: If the value of stolen items is less than $50, it’s considered a misdemeanor of the third degree. Values between $50 and $200 constitute a misdemeanor of the second degree. Over $200 is a misdemeanor of the first degree.
- Felony Theft Charges: Repeated offenses can elevate the charge to a felony. For example, having two prior offenses for theft from a motor vehicle within the past five years can result in a felony of the third degree, regardless of the value of the stolen items.
Frequently Asked Questions about Car Break-Ins
What If the Offender is a Juvenile?
Juveniles caught breaking into cars can face different consequences. The juvenile justice system focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment, but the severity of the crime and the juvenile’s history will influence the outcome.
Social Media Trends Can Influence Kids & Crime
Recent trends on social media apps like TikTok can push minors into breaking the law. You could be a victim of a viral crime wave. Staying up to date on what is popular can help prevent you from falling victim.
Can Someone Be Arrested for Trying to Open Doors?
Yes, attempting to open car doors can lead to charges, even if nothing is stolen. This act can be seen as an attempt to commit theft.
What If No One Is Caught?
If no one is caught during the break-in, it can be challenging to pursue charges. However, reporting the incident to the police is crucial for tracking crime patterns and increasing patrols in affected areas.
What Can I Legally Do If I See Someone Break into My Car?
If you witness a car break-in, it’s important to stay safe and avoid confrontation. Call the police immediately and provide as much information as possible, such as the suspect’s description and the vehicle involved.
Know the Law When it Comes to Local Car Break-Ins
At Fienman Defense, we understand the frustration of dealing with car break-ins. Stay calm, document the incident, and report it to the authorities to aid in the recovery of your property. Simple preventive measures like locking your vehicle, removing valuables, and parking in well-lit areas can help protect your car from future break-ins.
By ensuring you are well-informed and prepared, you can not only protect your property but also your peace of mind. Contact us for any legal assistance you may need—we are dedicated to serving and defending our community.
Attorney Michael H. Fienman represents clients in criminal and traffic matters across Philadelphia, Montgomery, Bucks, Delaware, and Chester counties. As an experienced local attorney, he is a zealous advocate. Attorney Fienman is licensed to practice before the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, the Supreme Court of New Jersey, the US District Court for the District of New Jersey, and the US District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.
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