BUTTE, MT - Members of our Montana communities: listen up.

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Whether you're a car owner yourself or not, knowing what these criminals are doing is essential to help protect your neighborhood.

Montana authorities are alerting residents to a new trend in high-end vehicle thefts involving home invasions. Criminals are reportedly breaking into homes to obtain key fobs, specifically targeting luxury and high-value cars.

As cases increase, Montanans are urged to take precautions to protect their homes and vehicles.

Criminal Patterns in Vehicle Thefts

The recent thefts appear to be organized, with groups targeting specific areas.

Criminals reportedly watch neighborhoods where high-end cars are parked outdoors, then break into homes specifically to locate key fobs. Once inside, they quickly escape with the targeted vehicle.

Who’s at Risk?

Upscale areas in Montana are particularly vulnerable, given the presence of high-value vehicles—though, granted, virtually anyone with an operating car is at risk.

Organized crime groups are suspected of involvement, often shipping stolen cars overseas or reselling them in distant locations. This trend, first seen in larger states, now extends to Montana's upscale and even rural communities, leaving homeowners concerned.

Precautions for Montana Residents

Authorities recommend parking vehicles in locked garages whenever possible. Avoid leaving key fobs near windows or in obvious places, and consider additional home security measures. Montana residents are also encouraged to report suspicious activity, especially unfamiliar vehicles slowly circling neighborhoods.

Remember:

As Montana faces a surge in these types of home invasions, local law enforcement remains vigilant. Community awareness and preventive measures can help protect both homes and high-end vehicles, ensuring Montana neighborhoods stay safe from this growing threat.

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