Top spots for car thieves in the Valley

PEORIA, AZ - Auto thieves in the Valley seem to prefer certain intersections over others.

Arizona has traditionally been known as a hotbed for car thieves, ranking No. 1 on the list just 10 years ago.

Now Arizona clocks in at 60 on the list of the most auto-theft prone locations.

In total, 13,132 vehicles were stolen in our state last year.

Most of the thefts occur in the Valley, according to an article you'll find in The Arizona Republic.

The intersections of 83rd Avenue and Bell Road is the No. 1 spot for auto thefts in the Valley.

Police say that's because of strip malls and restaurants in the area.

Thieves know you'll take your time in a store or while eating.

That gives them the time to steal your car and make a getaway before you even suspect something is wrong.

In Glendale, the area of 44th Avenue through 55th Avenue between Orangewood and Missouri accounted for 14 percent of car thefts in that part of town.

In Surprise, Commerce Park near Bell Road and Grand Avenue accounted for 9 percent of car thefts in that city last year.

Police say you should take a photo of your license plate with your cell phone which you can then give to officers in the event your vehicle is plucked from the parking lot.

That will give officers a head start in finding your ride.