More stolen cars when it's cold outside - CBS4 - WHBF Quad Cities, IL-IA News Weather Sports

More stolen cars when it's cold outside

By: Christine Souders

csouders@cbs4qc.com

It's something many of us are guilty of.  Starting the car and then going back inside while it warms up, but that toasty ride could come at a cost. 

It's a lesson the Barham Family won't soon forget.

Both their vehicles were stolen right from underneath their noses, "My daughter went out to start the cars and briefly came in to get her stuff ready to go, and saw on the cameras that both our cars were being driven off," said Misty Barham, who says it was too late to even try and stop them.

She said around noon, they caught the two suspects on their home security system as they were driving away in their cars.

"Looks like it was pretty set up, there was a car that actually dropped the off to pick up our cars," said Barham.

Police said leaving your car unattended is a perfect opportunity for car thieves.

"Where we see most of the cars being stolen from is someone's residence on the street or driveway at a store, especially like a convenient store where people are leaving their cars running and jump in the store for just a minute," said Sergeant Kevin Marxen.

He said even though the Barham's had their cars stolen, they're partially responsible.

Which Sgt. Marxen said makes these kinds of crimes harder to solve, "If we catch someone driving a car that was stolen under these circumstances, they can be charge with either theft or operating without an owners' consent."

But knowing that, doesn't make it easier for Misty and her family, "Losing two cars in one day is a horrible experience." 

Now, in Illinois it's illegal to leave your car running only if it's parked on the street or in a public area.

Police recommend using a remote control starter, so thieves can't drive off without the keys in it or stay in your car while it's warming up.