NBC12 News, Weather Sports, Traffic, and Programming Guide for Richmond, VA | Thefts from vehicles on the rise in Richmond

Thefts from vehicles on the rise in Richmond

By Tara Morgan - bio | email

RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) -  Richmond police say thefts from cars are on the rise citywide.  Cars were either left unlocked or windows were smashed.

Crooks will take anything they can see, even potato chips!

We took a walk down 2nd street with Richmond police Sgt. Mike Talley to see what people left on display for criminals.

"This person has actually done a really good job," said Sgt. Talley.

But that wasn't the case with the next parked car.

"We do have a few items here you have some clothing you have a bag some type of camera bag," said Sgt. Talley.

We also found a set of keys on one floor board.

Richmond police say thefts from cars are up 24 percent in the first three months.

The Historic Jackson Ward Association sent out an e-mail warning residents there.

Police say six cars were hit there between March 17th and 19th.

There were only two thefts from vehicles in that neighborhood the same time last year.

Electronics are being stolen and even food.

"A vendor was here from out of town had two boxes of UTZ chips the windows were smashed and those items were taken," said Sgt. Talley.

He says more downtown visitors may be a factor.

"We have seen people coming into the city for events such as the CAA Tournament and other events and there are people out there to take advantage of this," said Sgt. Talley.

Expect to be a target, if you leave your car unattended and unlocked while making a quick stop.

Sgt. Talley says this food delivery could've easily turned into crime.

"I thought they were coming back to the car they did leave it unattended," said Tom Jones.

Police suggest locking away your valuables in the trunk before you arrive at your destination.

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