Kansas Town Sees Rise in Car Thefts by Tow Truck

Authorities in Topeka, Kansas, are reporting a new trend in crime – thieves using a tow truck to steal cars.

Police spokeswoman Kristen Veverka tells the Topeka Capital-Journal that thieves are hooking up cars on city streets, usually in residential neighborhoods, then towing them to another spot to strip the parts.

Authorities aren’t sure of the number of such crimes, but it’s happened often enough that police issued a statement Wednesday urging people to watch for suspicious tow trucks.

Police said residents can protect vehicles by parking in a garage if possible, locking their car doors and taking the keys with them.