Clearwater Police Investigate String Of Auto Burglaries

CLEARWATER, FL — Clearwater Police are investigating multiple incidents of smashed car windows and purses, wallets and other valuables stolen from inside cars.

The thieves have used credit cards stolen from cars at nearby stores before the owners even realize they're gone and can cancel them.

On Monday, multiple vehicles were targeted at the Eddie C. Moore Complex in the 2900 block of Drew Street. On Wednesday, similar crimes occurred at the Crest Lake Dog Park and Glen Oaks Park.

After the burglaries, a woman was seen at local drug stores using the stolen credit cards. She is white, about 35 years old, 5 feet 4 inches tall and about 130 pounds. She has dark hair and wears medical scrubs. A white SUV is also being sought in connection with the crimes.

Clearwater Police remind those who are visiting parks, athletic fields, gyms and other similar places to not leave purses and other valuables in plain view inside your car.

"These are crimes of opportunity that take just seconds to occur," said Lt.Michael Walek. "If residents can take the extra time and plan ahead and not leave valuables where they can be seen, it will help keep them from becoming crime victims."

Some guns recovered from recent shooting incidents have been from unlocked vehicle burglaries as well. Detectives urge anyone who owns a gun to never leave it in a vehicle, especially if it's unlocked.

Anyone with information on these incidents should call Clearwater Police at 727-562-4242.