New Haven sees 150% increase in motor vehicle thefts

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — In the last five months, New Haven police say there’s been a 151.8% increase in motor vehicles thefts in the city.

The incidents involve teenagers driving cars in a reckless manner and in some situations, dangerously taunting other drivers by encircling their vehicles or backing into them and fleeing.

At least one incident involved a handgun being displayed, according to police.

Since April, these increased crimes have happened at various times throughout the Yale University campus and city.

Police said the stolen vehicles are often used in reckless driving and taunting incidents, as well as crimes across the region including robberies, burglaries, and assaults.

Anyone who sees a vehicle being driven erratically is asked to avoid confrontation and contact the New Haven Police Department at 203-946-6316 or the Yale Police Department at 203-432-4400. Try to take note of details to relay to police.

Suspicious incidents can also be reported anonymously via the LiveSafe app .

As always, residents are advised not to leave valuables or keys in their vehicles.

For Kia and Hyundai vehicle owners, wheel locks are available at the Yale University Police Department for free. Yale Police Officers said they’ll will deliver the wheel locks to any community member who requests them.

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