PURCELLVILLE, Va., March 25, 2025 — The Purcellville Police Department was excited to announce a new initiative aimed at helping residents and workers in Purcellville protect their vehicles from theft. Starting April 8, 2025, the department will be giving away free Tile Mates, Bluetooth tracking devices designed to deter auto theft and assist in locating vehicles if they are stolen.
Giveaway Event Details:
Join them for the giveaway on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at Purcellville Town Hall, located at 221 South Nursery Avenue. The event will run from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., or until supplies last. Distribution will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
Eligibility Requirements:
To receive a free Tile Mate, participants must meet the following criteria:
– Must live or work in Purcellville.
– Residents need to provide a photo ID and vehicle registration that matches their address.
– Employees must show proof of their workplace address, such as a pay stub or employee ID.
What is a Tile Mate?
Tile Mate is a Bluetooth tracker that can help users locate items, including vehicles. By attaching the Tile Mate to your vehicle in a discreet location, you can use the Tile app on your smartphone to track its location if it is within Bluetooth range. The Tile works with both iPhone and Android devices.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– How do I set up my Tile Mate?
Simply download the Tile app on your mobile device, create an account, and follow the on-screen instructions to pair your Tile Mate.
– Does it require a subscription?
No subscription is needed for basic use, but Tile also offers a premium service for added features like Smart Alerts and an extended warranty.
– What is the Bluetooth range?
Tile Mate has a range of up to 250 feet. If it is out of range, the app will display the last known location on a map.
– How does the program work if my vehicle is stolen?
If your vehicle is stolen, log into your Tile account to show responding officers the device’s location.
– How many devices can I receive?
Each resident or vehicle can receive one free Tile Mate.
– Is the device mine to keep?
Yes, once received, the Tile Mate is yours to keep.
– How is the program funded?
The Tile Mates are provided through a grant from the Virginia State Police Help Eliminate Auto Theft (HEAT) program.
– Are motorcycles eligible?
Yes, all motor vehicles, including motorcycles, are eligible for the program.
– What should I do if my vehicle is stolen?
Immediately report the theft by calling 911 and inform the dispatcher that your vehicle has a tracking device. When officers arrive, provide them with the real-time location of the device.
Interim Chief Sara Lombraña remarked, “While we are fortunate that Purcellville has an overall low crime rate, we are not immune to vehicle thefts, especially those crimes of opportunity when vehicles are left unlocked or with keys inside. We encourage our residents to take necessary crime prevention steps, such as always locking their vehicles and keeping valuables out of sight. The distribution of Tile Mates is one more tool our officers can use to assist citizens in quickly locating and recovering stolen vehicles.”
For additional information or questions, please contact the Purcellville Police Department’s Administrative Office at 540-338-7422 during business hours, Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your vehicle’s security!