Delaware State Police on Monday issued a warning to the public about leaving cars unattended while they are idling.

DSP’s Troop 2 Property Crimes Unit has recently been handling a rash of vehicle thefts in the New Castle County area. A large majority of the thefts have occurred from gas stations, where a vehicle was left unattended, idling and unlocked, DSP said.

The most common practice is a victim leaving his or her car running in a parking lot, while going into a store for a quick purchase. Some car thieves look for cars idling in parking lots, and once they see a car is left unattended, they walk up and drive away, DSP said.

DSP cited Delaware law regarding an unattended motor vehicle, which states that no person driving or in charge of a motor vehicle shall permit it to stand unattended without first stopping the engine, locking the ignition, removing the key and effectively setting the brake. For a first offense, a fine of $25 to $75 can be imposed.

The suspects in these most recent cases appear to be juvenile males, DSP said.

DSP asked anyone with information to contact the Property Crimes Unit at 365-8430. Information may also be provided by calling Delaware Crime Stoppers at 800-TIP-3333 or by visiting here.