Summary of Theft from Vehicles Initiative

Statistics show that while overall crime in Neenah is down, theft, including theft from vehicles, continues to be a problem.  In an effort to address this, the Neenah Police Department will be using a new approach to spread an old message.  Neenah Police officers will be distributing educational materials, in the form of “vehicle report cards”.

Officers will be conducting security checks of unoccupied parked vehicles, noting whether doors are locked, windows are closed, items of value are in plain view, or anything else that could make the vehicle more attractive to thieves.  A “report card” will be completed, indicating whether the vehicle passed or failed this security check, with a reason given. The “report cards” will then be placed on the windshield, but will not be a ticket.

It is hoped that those with vehicles that “pass”, will feel encouraged to continue habits that make their property safe, while those with vehicles that “do not pass”, will see this as an opportunity to make changes, as they are relieved to discover it was a police officer visiting their vehicle, and not a thief.

We realize that sometimes despite best efforts to avoid it, people are still victimized; however, there are often simple measures that can be taken, to help keep property safe and reduce your chances of being victimized.  These report cards simply point out areas of vulnerability, as it pertains to citizens’ vehicles.

What does this Report Card look lke?

Sample Report Card