NCJ Number
190832
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 49 Issue: 7 Dated: July 2001 Pages: 53-56
Date Published
July 2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes how to leave police vehicles running without fear of their theft.
Abstract
Police procedures specify leaving a patrol car running, even though anyone can then enter it and take off. Attorneys for parties adversely affected by events involving stolen patrol cars have recently started looking at this as preventable, especially with today's technologically advanced anti-theft devices. More law enforcement agencies are being held accountable for damage, injuries, and deaths as the result of these incidents. More departments are evaluating their current procedures and looking at anti-theft equipment. One such device is the Tremco Police Package Anti-Theft System. When an officer pulls up to an emergency and places the shifter in park, the device automatically activates. A would-be thief cannot pull the shifter out of the park position. Upon returning to the vehicle, however, the officer can deactivate the system and be on his way. The system also protects vehicles when not in service. If the key lock is destroyed, the shifter will not release. Another type of anti-theft device is manufactured by Secure-Idle. When an officer stops the vehicle, presses a button, and then takes the key out of the ignition, the car's engine keeps running but the steering column locks up and the shifter cannot be moved.