The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office wants your car to be safe and secure year-round.

July is designated National Vehicle Protection Month by both the National Insurance Crime Bureau. However, your vehicle could be a target of theft at any time of year.

According to statistics provided by the sheriff’s office, 55 vehicles have been reported stolen in New Iberia since Jan. 1, 39 of them reported stolen outside new unincorporated areas of the parish. In 2007, the city reported 120 stolen vehicles and 81 in the parish.

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Public Information Officer Jerry Methvin said that no particular area of the city or parish is more likely to have vehicles stolen than in any other, but more incidents have taken place in the city.

“More vehicles are stolen in the city than the parish, and it’s generally when the owner isn’t present,” Methvin said.

Methvin provided some tips, if followed, that will reduce your likelihood of becoming a car theft victim.

“Always lock your vehicle,” Methvin said. “Never leave your vehicle running and unattended even in your own driveway. Never leave spare keys in the car or hiding places. Park in well-lit areas when shopping, and never leave valuables in plain sight. Lock them in the trunk if necessary.”

National Insurance Crime Bureau Commissioner Jim Donelon said vehicle theft has become a huge business.

“Car theft rings sell stolen vehicles in other countries or take them to chop shops where the parts are sold,” Donelon said in a press release, adding that stolen cars are also used in robberies, illegal drug trafficking and drive-by shootings. “They also look for older vehicles that can be stolen and stripped for parts, as well.”  

Donelon said vehicle theft contributes to another issue Louisiana residents are struggling with — high insurance rates.

“The high incidence of auto theft claims in Louisiana ultimately lead to higher insurance rates, so protect your vehicle by following tips for vehicle crime prevention,” Donelon said.