Young drivers targeted by thieves: MPI

A new study by Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) suggests young driver are being targeted by thieves and vandals.Of people aged 18 to 24, 38% say they have reported a vehicle theft, vandalism or break-in to the public insurer in the last two years. Just 26% of those aged 25-39 report such crimes. And of those aged 65 and older, just 7% report being the victim of an auto crime.”Many young vehicle owners still don’t believe they could be targeted by criminals,” says Barry Ward, MPI auto theft co-ordinator. “It’s a matter of protecting both the vehicle and the belongings within the passenger area.” He adds that young drivers are more likely to lave valuables such as CDs, cell phone, purses and wallets in open view within their vehicle.The results come from a May 2004 study of 805 Manitoba residents, the results of which were released in conjunction with the province’s annual “Auto Theft Awareness Week”.