Police: Reports of Car Break-Ins on the Increase in Athens

The Athens-Clarke County Police Department issued the following special media release concerning recent bar break-ins:

INCREASE IN ENTERING AUTOS

Over the past several days, there has been an increase in the number of reported entering autos in Athens-Clarke County.

It does not appear that any one area is being targeted as we have had reports from all over the county.

These have been mostly “smash and grab” thefts in the parking lots of businesses. The thieves target vehicles where valuables (purses, backpacks, cell phones, lap tops, etc.) have been left in plain sight.

Citizens are reminded to always place valuables out of sight (covered in the back seat or in the trunk) or take them with you when you park your vehicle.

Always lock your vehicle. Make sure you have recorded the make, model, and serial numbers of any electronics. This information will help detectives identify and return any stolen property if it is recovered.

This should also apply wherever you park your vehicle.

We also remind citizens if they “See Something, Say Something.” Any criminal activity or suspicious persons/vehicles should be reported immediately by calling 911. Give the call taker as much information as possible (description of any persons/vehicles involved, exact location, direction of travel, etc.). With your help, we can continue to make our community a safer place to live.