POUGHKEEPSIE – Dutchess County Sheriff Butch Anderson is warning eastern Dutchess residents of an increase in car thefts along the Route 22 corridor. Items have been stolen from unlocked vehicles and in several instances, the vehicles have been stolen.
Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) Captain John Watterson said that the incidents, primarily in the Dover area, have occurred in the late night – early morning hours. The primary target of the criminals are unlocked vehicles and vehicles with key fobs in them or accessible nearby.
Watterson said that investigators believe that the thefts are related to a large-scale, out-of-state criminal enterprise whose members are considered armed and dangerous. Members of the public are being encouraged to avoid confronting the suspects. Watterson said that suspicious activity should be reported by calling 911 immediately.
Vehicle owners are being reminded to keep vehicles locked and remove valuables from sight. Keys to the vehicle should not be left in the vehicle.
DCSO Detective Wilber is the lead investigator for the crime spree. While no suspect descriptions have been compiled, Sheriff Anderson is asking for the public’s assistance. Anyone who sees suspicious behavior is encouraged to call 911 or send an anonymous email to Detective Wilber or call 845-605-CLUE (2583). All information is guarded as confidential.
Detective Wilber is also asking for anyone with surveillance camera footage to contact the DCSO to arrange for viewing by the investigators.
