'Puffing' cost an Arvada man his truck, Arvada police say

ARVADA, Colo. -- Heating up cars during cold temperatures gives thieves a great opportunity to commit crime.  

Arvada police say a man living near 64th and Quail was heating up his car when he caught the suspect in action stealing his truck. The man first jumped into the bed of the truck to try and stop the suspect, but then jumped out about a mile away.

Arvada police said this is a good reminder to not leave your car running without being near it. Violators can be slapped with a $100 fine, police say.

So far this year, Arvada police investigated 18 cars that were stolen because their owners left them running. Police said constantly dealing with this crime puts a strain on their resources.

“it's potentially taking away from other investigations in the city, when again it's simple as going out and spending five minutes in your car,” said Dave Snelling.