Capt. Chris Dobbs with the Carrollton Police Department said several cars were broken into that were parked in the parking lot of South Park Apartments on South Park Street in Carrollton late Wednesday night.
Dobbs said police did not yet know how much merchandise or money was taken from the cars, if any. He also said the apartment complex has not given them much trouble in recent years, saying crime there is "very rare."
Dobbs said it appeared most of the cars were not unlocked before the break-ins.
It usually takes less than a minute for a thief to break a car window and take whatever is there in plain sight. Each year, according to Nationwide Insurance, $1.26 billion in personal items and accessories are stolen from vehicles in about 1.85 million thefts. For every accomplished theft, experts estimate there are several break-ins and attempted break-ins.
On Nationwide Insurance's website, the company provides tips for preventing car break-ins. Some may seem like common sense, but they may prevent anyone from being a victim.
Keeping cars visible is the foremost pointer. Parking in well-lit areas, near people or with a parking lot or garage attendant on duty is important. Avoid concealing your car behind larger vehicles, fences or foliage.
Don't make it easy for the attempting thieves. Keep the doors (and windows and sunroofs) closed and locked. Almost one-fourth of thefts from vehicles are from unlocked cars, the site reports.
Hide your valuable items. Many "smash-and-grab" thieves act on impulse, so keep your items out of sight. Don't rely on the glove box, either — thieves know to look there.
Most importantly, the site says, trust your instincts. If you see suspicious activity, choose another parking spot. If you're still concerned, tell an attendant or report your suspicions to the police.
CPD urges anyone with any information on the automobile break-ins Wednesday night to call police at 770-834-4451. Callers who wish to remain anonymous can call CrimeStoppers at 770-838-7867.
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