Local law enforcement is warning the public to be aware of a rash of car break-ins in the area, especially in parking areas around the lake and shopping centers. DeKalb County Sheriff Patrick Ray and Smithville Police Chief Mark Collins said in a joint statement that car windows are being smashed to get to valuable inside the vehicles.

Both departments say that there has been a spike in recent reports of car break-ins where personal belongings are stolen.

“We’ve had some car break-ins on Cove Hollow Circle near the Dam, and Edgar Evins State Park has had some. The City of Smithville has also had some,” said Sheriff Ray. “It looks like they are getting wallets and purses most of the time, which contain credit cards and cash. We want everyone to be aware, especially if they are going to the lake or somewhere like Walmart, to hide their valuables.”

“We believe these vehicles that are targeted are where valuables have been left in plain sight,” Chief Collins added. “The thief walks by the vehicle, sees a pocketbook, wallet, or other valuable items in plain sight, pops the window, and he’s gone in seconds.”

“We want to encourage everyone to put your valuables in your trunk and keep them out of sight. It may deter these people from breaking into your vehicle until we can get these subjects caught,” said Chief Collins.

According to Sheriff Ray, a suspect vehicle in the case was also captured during similar crimes in Wilson, where authorities have posted on social media a photo of the vehicle. Security photos of the suspects using a stolen a credit card from a local victim were also taken at Walmart here. Sheriff Ray said that if anyone sees that vehicle or the suspects, to please call Central Dispatch at 615-215-3000