Truth is, if you leave your car unlocked then you’re looking for trouble, as you’re making it an easy target for thieves to steal or, at least, walk away with any valuable items left inside.

In North Shore, Boston, one in every five cars checked by the police over the weekend had either unlocked doors or an open window. So the local boys in blue decided to take proactive measures: they look for unlocked cars, and/or vehicle with items that may attract attention like GPS systems, wallets, bags etc. left inside.

Then they lock the cars and leave a warning leaflet on the windshield. The police patrol neighborhoods and parking lots from Beverly to Gloucester.

Though many residents welcomed their actions, it did have some side effects. Beverly Police Chief Mark Ray admits, “A few were upset by the fact that we went into their vehicles – and we understand it.”

The funny part is the angry drivers calling 911 because they had forgotten their keys in the car and consequently were locked out…

Story References: CBS