Police ask drivers to turn off vehicles, take keys after large number of car thefts

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ATLANTA — More than 2,000 cars have been stolen so far this year in Atlanta and police have a message they hope will slow that number’s growth.

Police talked about the problem at a news conference Thursday afternoon.

Police said it sounds simple but they are urging drivers to not leave their car running or leave the key in the ignition.

Atlanta Deputy Police Chief Timothy Peake said a majority of car thefts this year were due to thieves having an easy target.

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“Earlier in year, about 70% of vehicles were left with keys in ignition. We’re (now) at 60%, but that’s still too many,” Peake said.

Police said the stolen cars are then used in other crimes, causing a drain on police resources.

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