Police
Auto Theft Prevention
The Central Washington University Police Department encourages you to report suspicious activities. Crime prevention is a partnership between law enforcement and the community. If you see questionable activities, call 911 and report them immediately. The vehicle theft that you prevent could be your own.
Central Washington University does not have a high number of auto thefts, but the student population is primarily comprised of individuals who arrive from areas with high levels of auto thefts due to living in areas of highly condensed populations.
Theft is a crime of opportunity. Most often, there are steps you can take to prevent vehicle theft or vehicle prowls. Throughout the year, University Police provide programs that teach you how to better protect yourself and your belongings.
Tips to protect yourself
Never leave your keys in your vehicle
Never leave your car running unattended, not even for a minute
Don't leave a duplicate key on the outside of your vehicle
Be aware of your surroundings
Do not leave valuables in your vehicle
Completely close all your windows and lock your doors every time
Use an anti-theft device
CWU News
CWU professor saving lives in Cameroon through his love of soccer
July 13, 2026 by Rune Torgersen
National endorsement raises profile of CWU’s Child Life graduate program
July 13, 2026 by David Leder