BELLINGHAM, Wash. (AP) — As winter approaches, state authorities are warning that a widespread practice is illegal.
Under state law, It is illegal for people driving or in charge of a vehicle to leave it unattended without first stopping the engine.
The laws applies to residents who turn on their cars in the winter and head back inside to keep warm.
A 2019 report made public by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs showed 37.6% of vehicles stolen in Washington state were taken from homes and 26% were taken from parking lots and garages.