DAPHNE, Ala. (WPMi) Local authorities say there have been a rash of break ins in some Daphne neighborhoods, and they say there are certain steps you can take to protect your belongings.
"Its always weird to think about when you are in such a nice place like Daphne, that stuff happens. But the world still goes around and there's people that do do it," said Michael Garza. Folks like Garza who live in Daphne's Sehoy subdivision are warned everyday now to watch out for car break ins.
Police say city wide there have been close to 60 cases in the last three months.
"The vast majority of those I would say 95 percent of them have been left unlocked. A select few have had forced entry," said Cpl. Jason Vannoy with the Daphne Police Department.
Parked cars are easy targets.
"Somebody can go into a neighborhood and check 50 vehicles and running from house to house, pulling on door handles and things until they finally find one that's unlocked," said Vannoy.
Police say "lock it or lose it," and clear any valuables from the front or back seats.
"Windows always need to be rolled up. If you have an alarm system or have the option for one, it's always a great idea," said Garza.
There have been increased patrols and eight different arrests over the last month.
"It's apparently a very popular thing. Other jurisdictions in the county are also having the same problems," said Vannoy.
Police usually see a spike in these type of crimes in the summer. That has changed and police say your best bet it to lock your car and if you see anybody suspicious call police.
