Upper Moreland Police Propose Fines For Leaving Car Unlocked

UPPER MORELAND TOWNSHIP, Pa. (CBS) -- Tired of criminals victimizing residents who refuse to lock their car doors, Police Chief Tom Nestel is now proposing that Upper Moreland Township enact a law that would fine owners $25 if police find their vehicles unlocked in public areas.

Cars in driveways would be exempt. Nestel says first-time offenders would receive a warning before a fine on the second offense.

Nestel pointed out that more than 75 percent of cars victimized by thieves were left unlocked.

After repeated attempts to alert owners to the importance of locking their vehicles, the chief says he's proposing the law in hopes of cutting car-related crime.

Nestel says that the fines are not intended to raise revenue, but rather to raise awareness.

Several neighbors upon learning of the proposal were critical, saying that fines and tickets were not necessary.

Nestel says, in some ways, he doesn't care if the proposal, which won't be voted on until at least December, becomes law. Even if it's defeated, he points out that the controversy will send his message loud and clear: lock your vehicle to prevent crime.

Reported By: Walt Hunter, CBS 3