Racine Sheriff Investigating Burglaries, Stolen Vehicles, Thefts

RACINE COUNTY, WI — Authorities in Racine County say there has been a rash of property crimes in western Racine County this week, and are urging residents to secure their vehicles and homes overnight.

This rash of incidents appears to by just a day or two later than a rash of similar crimes in Waukesha County.

According to the Racine County Sheriff's Office, starting on Sept. 10 at about 3 a.m., Sheriff's officials responded to numerous complaints of burglaries, stolen vehicles, and thefts from vehicles in the Village of Rochester.

Sheriff's officials say that unknown suspects gained entry into unlocked vehicles, and then homes by using the garage door openers in the unlocked vehicles. In addition, two vehicles were stolen and have not yet been recovered.

Racine County Sheriff Christopher Schmaling is urging members of the public to lock their homes and vehicles, and to not leave valuables in cars.

If you have any information on these burglaries and thefts, you're encouraged to contact the Racine County Sheriff's Office at (262) 636-3367.