Man Steals From Unlocked Cars, Garages In Westlake: Police

WESTLAKE, OH — Several unlocked cars and garages were rifled through Friday morning in Westlake, police announced. Four residents reported missing items, though much of the stolen property was recovered.

At 7 a.m., residents on Glenmore Drive began reporting possible thefts of their property.

One resident said someone had gone through two unlocked cars parked in their driveway. A laptop and purse were taken from the vehicles, but were found in a nearby yard.

Then a second resident reported that someone entered his unlocked, detached garage. A set of golf clubs and other assorted items were taken, but most of the missing stuff was recovered in the neighborhood.

"When officers were investigating the theft at the house, they learned that a person known to the resident had allegedly entered the home without permission and stole items from inside as well," a police spokesperson said.

A third resident then discovered a bicycle was stolen from their unattached garage. The bike was found in the neighborhood and given back to the resident.

Finally, a fourth resident reported that someone went through their unlocked car and took several items. All the stolen goods were found in the neighborhood.

Police believe the thefts happened between Thursday night and Friday morning and all appear to be connected.

A man identified as a suspect in the thefts was spotted at 10 a.m. on Friday. He was walking down Center Ridge Road, near Canterbury. Officers chased the man and then took a 24-year-old from Cleveland into custody.

The man will be charged through the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court.