Woodinville Gym Thefts: Police Warn Residents To Be On Guard

WOODINVILLE, WA - Police are reporting that local gyms have been hit by a rash of thefts where thieves steal car keys and then rifle through vehicles - and in one case, stole the entire car.

Police posted a message about the thefts on Facebook Wednesday, warning residents to secure their possessions.

"It's a new year and we are all heading back to the gym to work off those holiday pounds," the Facebook post read. "While we are working out criminals are checking for unsecured gym lockers and sometimes cutting off locks to steal purses, wallets and car keys."

Police detailed one incident where, while on patrol, an officer spotted a suspicious car with an expired registration in a gym parking lot. When the driver noticed the police, he quickly left the parking lot, and was pulled over. Under questioning, the occupants of the car admitted that they were going to enter the gym to steal property.

The suspects had prior arrests for theft, police said.

"We know that many folks stop at the gym on the way home from work. Try and change at your place of work and secure your belongings in your trunk prior to parking at the gym, then keep your keys with you!" police said on Facebook. "Remember, the criminals often sit in the parking lot and watch to see who leaves what behind."

Image via Shutterstock