An early morning patrol by Shomrim volunteers helped the NYPD stop a suspect caught breaking into a car and attempting to steal it.

A Shomrim volunteer first spotted the man acting suspiciously and started following him while requesting additional volunteers to assist in following the suspect discreetly. As more volunteers arrived, they confirmed that the suspect was checking multiple car door handles, searching for an unlocked vehicle.

When he managed to open one car, Shomrim continued to observe and immediately alerted the NYPD. Volunteers watched as the suspect rummaged through the vehicle, stealing valuables. In the process, he found a key that the owner had mistakenly left inside. Just as he was about to drive off, NYPD officers arrived and took him into custody.

The car owner was shocked to learn that volunteers were patrolling even at that hour and had saved both his vehicle and belongings from being stolen.

Shomrim is reminding the community to always lock their cars, double-check that doors are secured, and never leave keys or valuables inside, as they attract thieves and increase the risk of break-ins.