GRANT COUNTY - The Grant County Sheriff's Office is reminding citizens to take preventative measures to stop auto thefts.

During the past month in areas patrolled by the Sheriff's Office, there been 14 reported vehicle thefts - a dramatic increase compared to previous months.

"Auto theft is usually a crime of opportunity," Sheriff Tom Jones said. "If people will heed our simple advice, the likelihood of them becoming an auto theft victim decreases."

Cars most often stolen in Washington are: 1992 Honda Accord, 1995 Honda Civic, 1990 Toyota Camry, 1995 Acura Integra, 1993 Subaru Legacy, 1994 Nissan Sentra, 1993 Dodge Caravan, 1994 Saturn SL, 1994 Ford Explorer and 1995 Nissan Pathfinder.

Tips from the Sheriff's Office include:

• Always lock your car.
• Always roll up your windows.
• Always remove your valuables from your car or lock them in the trunk.
• Never leave your car running and unattended.
• Try to park in a well-lit place.

People who have information about stolen vehicles are asked to contact the Grant County Sheriff's Office at 509-754-2011 ext. 468, or send information to crimetips@co.grant.wa.us. Tipsters can remain anonymous.

Vehicles may be stolen for any of a number of reasons and to further any number of purposes. Here are some:

• To sell the entire vehicle.
• To sell the parts.
• To obtain transportation.
• To trade for drugs.
• To go joyriding.
• To commit other crimes.
• To commit insurance fraud.
• To clone your vehicle.