Utica, NY (WIBX) - Utica Police say there has been a 59% increase in motor vehicles thefts in the city compared to last year.

Police say the vast majority of stolen vehicles are the result of car owners leaving their cars running and unattended.

They say motor vehicle theft is a crime of opportunity that can be prevented.

To add insult to injury, police say there is no guarantee that your insurance company will honor any claims as a result of the theft.

Additionally, you could receive a traffic summons under the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law.

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