Buick tops hit list of favorites among car thieves, police say

If you've got a Buick, you'd better keep a close eye on it. The domestic-made vehicles are the most likely target of car thieves in Orange County at a time when the number of auto thefts is jumping dramatically, police said. The large cars are especially popular among gang members, said Lt. Dave Stuflick of the California Highway Patrol. Also on the hit list of Orange County's auto thieves are Hondas, Chevrolets, Hyundais and Toyotas. Hondas are particularly popular for their parts, while thieves like the Toyota's sound system, Stuflick said. Though the year is barely half over, auto thefts in Orange County already have surpassed last year's total of 20,000 stolen cars, he said. About 85 percent of the cars are stolen for joyrides or parts. "The chances are much greater than 10 years ago," Stuflick said. As the rash of auto thefts grows, police urge drivers to exercise more caution when leaving their vehicles. Anti-theft devices such as The Club, alarms,ignition kill switches and window etching often discourage prospective auto thieves, Stuflick told residents at a recent crime prevention seminar at Anaheim City Hall. But police often recover cars when anti-theft devices haven't been used. "The greatest impact is to take your keys, lock your car and roll up the window," Stuflick said. Scratches, dents or other unique marks on cars also should be noted so the vehicles can be identified easily if they are found, he added. Police and other local officials also offered the following tips to keep auto thieves and burglars away: Participate in Neighborhood Watch programs or work with police to organize your own if there isn't one in your neighborhood. Install a peep hole or door viewer in your front door so visitors can be easily seen. Install deadbolts on exterior doors and doors that connect garages with your house. Secure sliding glass doors, which are an easy target for entry. Don't be intimidated by gang members or others who use scare tactics to threaten witnesses not to testify. Intimidation of a witness is a c