Crime reduction 

Theft of high-value or new vehicles

A ‘vamoose’ burglary is a name used by Thames Valley Police for a burglary that takes place specifically to steal the keys of a high-value or new vehicle.

‘Vamoose’ burglaries often happen when car keys are left next to an open building door or window. In some extreme cases, thieves have put a long stick or fishing rod through letterboxes to hook the car keys and make off with the vehicle.

Please consider the crime prevention advice below to make sure that you’re not a victim of this type of crime:

• Park your car in a well-lit area – either on your driveway, or on the roads under a street lamp, for example.
• Make sure that your vehicle is properly dead-locked and that the alarm is fully activated.
• Lock all windows and doors of your car.
• Hide your car keys away from any windows and doors or take them up to bed with you.
• Do not leave your car keys in full view of any windows or doors.

If you see anything suspicious or find evidence of an attempt to steal your car, call 101, the 24-hour Thames Valley Police non-emergency number. If the crime is in progress, call 999.

If you’d like advice on your home security, call 101. Ask for a member of your local Neighbourhood Policing team to visit you.