Attempted Kia Auto Thefts Follow String Of Burglaries: Sarasota Police

SARASOTA, FL — Three attempted thefts of Kias were reported in Sarasota after a string of auto burglaries targeting that make of vehicles, authorities said.

The latest attempted thefts happened early Tuesday morning near U.S. 41 and Mecca Drive, according to a Sarasota Police Department news release.

The Kia vehicle burglaries happened Monday morning in the area of Sarasota Avenue at 40th Street, police said. It is believed the same group of suspects is responsible for those burglaries.

One person was walking in the area when the burglaries occurred. The suspects pushed the victim to the ground and assaulted them, leaving them with minor injuries, police said.

Residents should secure and lock their vehicles when they’re unattended.

“Please remain vigilant and if you see something suspicious, call 911 and report it to law enforcement right away,” police said.

Information can be submitted to the SPD’s Criminal Investigations Division at 941-236-6070 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com.