Cops: Luxury Vehicles Targeted in Thefts

The Nassau County Police Department has issued a warning regarding a pattern of luxury cars and SUV's being stolen throughout the Tri-State area.

Late model Land Rover’s, Mercedes Benz and other luxury vehicles with push-button starts and key fobs are being targeted, police said. The thefts have occurred when the vehicles have been left unlocked and the key fob is left in the vehicle. 

On Sunday at 9:45 p.m., a 51-year-old man was driving his Land Rover in Flower Hill when it was struck by a dark-colored SUV, which contained four Hispanic males, cops said.

After the victim pulled over to check the damage, two men displayed guns. They then stole his wallet, his jacket containing the key fob and cash. They then shoved him to the ground and fled in the Range Rover. The victim was treated for minor injuries.

A Third Precinct officer spotted the vehicle in Manhasset, and they intentionally struck his vehicle to evade apprehension. The officer wasn't hurt, and they fled westbound on the Long Island Expressway. The stolen vehicle was recovered in Woodside, and an extensive search for the suspects yielded negative results.

Detectives request anyone with information regarding this crime to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-244-TIPS. All callers will remain anonymous.

Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano and Police Commissioner Victor F. Politi issued the following safety tips:

• Always lock your vehicle, even when it’s parked in your driveway or garage.
• Always take your keys or fob with you.
• Never leave or hide a smart key, valet key or spare key anywhere in or on your vehicle, no matter where you park it.
• If possible park your vehicle in a locked garage.
• Keep the exterior of homes and driveways well illuminated.
• Close all your vehicle windows completely when parked.
• Also, secure your garage door opener to prevent access to your home.