Thief Caught on Camera in Shaker Heights, Do You Recognize Him?

SHAKER HEIGHTS, OH - Police are looking to identify a man that may be stealing items from unlocked cars throughout the city. The suspect was caught on camera last night by several residents, and police are sharing some of that footage with the public.

There have been several other thefts from unlocked cars in recent weeks in Shaker Heights. Most recently, there was a break-in of an unlocked car parked on Winslow Road on Jan. 13. Nothing was taken from the vehicle.

Commander John Cole of the Shaker Heights Police says the department is looking into a possible connection between last night's break-ins and previous thefts from unlocked cars in the area. He added that the department is close to identifying the suspect in the video footage.

"He hit more than one car last night," Cole says. "Those reports are still coming in."

Cole says the man in the video uses the same tactics to hit unlocked cars. He waits until late in the evening and then rings your doorbell. If you don't answer, he tries unlocking your car. If you forgot to lock up your vehicle, he'll grab whatever he can.

The department is asking residents to follow a few simple tips to keep themselves safe. First, lock your cars at night. Second, leave an outdoor light on, particularly if it illuminates your car. That simple light could deter potential thieves. Third, if you're awake late, be a good neighbor and take a look outside your window every once in a while. Especially take a look if you hear something odd. You may catch someone like this car thief prowling around. Call Shaker Heights Police if you spot something unseemly.

Finally, if you know the person in the video below, or have details on his crimes, call Shaker Heights Police at (216) 491-1234.

Photos and video from Shaker Heights Police