Vehicle Larcenies, Auto Thefts Increase in Zone 2 Over Last Year

The first three months of 2012 showed an increase in auto thefts and vehicle larcenies in Buckhead when compared to the same time period last year, according to statistics provided by the Atlanta Police Department.

In APD Zone 2, which includes Buckhead, auto-thefts were up 15.32% between Jan. 1 and March 21 of 2012. Vehicle larcenies rose even higher in that time period by 20.25%, which was the highest increase in any of the six reporting zones.

Citywide, auto thefts rose by 4.48%, while vehicle larcenies actually went down by 3.42%.

While you can't prevent all auto thefts or break-ins, APD says you can minimize the risk of making your vehicle an attractive target.

The department has been pushing its "Clean Car Campaign" for several months now and advises that you sweep your vehicles of anything that might make it tempting to break into it:

• Remove GPS and mounts
• Remove mobile phones
• Remove laptops and tablets
• Remove all power cords and power sources for your electronics
• Remove all shopping bags, briefcases, duffel bags and purses
• Don't leave wallets, loose change or currency out in open view
• If you have a gun in your vehicle, don't leave it there
• And while there's been some philosophical debate from some vehicle owners who leave their vehicles unlocked, APD says you should always lock your doors.
• It's best to sweep your vehicle before you get to your destination, not after.

As far as stolen vehicles go, the Honda Accord is the No. 1 stolen vehicle in Georgia and nationally, according to the National Insurance Crime Bureau. The data is from 2010, the most recent figures available.

Rounding out the Top 5 both in Georgia and across the country are Honda Civics, Toyota Camrys, Ford F150 pickup trucks and Chevrolet pickups, the NICB says.

Here's how the NICB breaks it down:

Most Stolen: Georgia -2010

If it's any consolation, eight of the Top 10 metro areas for stolen vehicles are in California. The remaining two slots in the Top 10 are in Washington State.

Metro Atlanta ranks 30th behind metro Macon, which is No. 14 and metro Columbus, No. 20.