Another Car Theft As Manchester Motor Vehicle Thefts On The Rise

On May 21, 2022, Manchester Police responded to a Pearl St address for a reported stolen car. The caller told police that he saw a man walk up his driveway around 7:30 AM and then lost sight of him. Soon after, he heard his car start up, and the same man drive away with it. He also told police that other vehicles in the parking lot had their doors open as if someone had gone through them.

The victim’s vehicle was located on Blodgett St, and an individual matching the description of the suspect was reportedly seen in the area, attempting to get into other cars. The man, identified as 27-year-old Farah Ibrahim was located laying under a vehicle. Ibrahim was found to have a stolen credit card on him, as well as the keys to the car that was reported stolen and illegal drugs. He was charged with Receiving Stolen Property, Possession of a Controlled Drug, and Resisting Arrest.

Thefts from motor vehicles increased significantly throughout 2021, and this year we continue to see rising numbers. It’s not uncommon to see reports of car break-ins go up during the warmer months, but this year is particularly concerning. In April alone there were 91 reported car break-ins, compared to the prior years of 2018-2021 where the April average was 44. In most of these incidents, the owners admitted to having left their windows down and/or cars unlocked, and in some cases the keys inside the vehicle. While these thefts have happened all over the city, the top locations for repeat incidents are in parking garages, apartment complexes, and large commercial and retail parking lots.

Manchester PD advises that to avoid being a victim, lock your vehicles, roll up your windows, and if possible park in a well-lit area.