Rising car break-ins in Columbus prompt urgent police reminder to secure valuables

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — As Columbus police investigate a recent rash of car break-ins in public places, law enforcement is reminding drivers to lock their cars and hide valuables from view.

“Take 60 seconds, relax, look around your car and hide the valuables, secure your valuables,” says Sgt. Joe Johnson Jr. with the Columbus Police.

Walkers who park their cars at Griggs Reservoir are now taking extra prevention steps after windows have been shattered and property stolen at public parks, malls, and restaurants.

“Do you want to risk having a window broken?” said Peggy Lien, as she was getting into her car after walking the preserve.

“They want what is inside, which could be a purse, a backpack,” said Sgt. Johnson.

ABC 6 walked Griggs’ parking lot with Sgt. Johnson, and it didn’t take long for him to find valuables near the top of thieves’ wish lists sitting in open view inside a parked truck.

“They got personal items, that could be bad, if someone is trying to steal your identity, you should have your seats clear,” said Johnson.

Police say crooks can smash and grab your valuables in a matter of seconds.

“If you have weapons with you, take them with you, have a lock box in your car secured to the frame,” said Johnson, “they are stealing guns and money.”

ABC 6 reviewed crime reports for the last two weeks and discovered more than 50 vehicles have been targeted by thieves in parts of north and northwest Columbus.

On Sunday, six cars were broken into at the Park of Roses in Clintonville, where wallets and purses were stolen.

The following day, nearly a dozen vehicles were hit at the Mall at Tuttle Crossing.

“Why is this happening? All of a sudden, there is a big influx of break-ins,” said Lien.

Columbus police continue to search for suspects in the rash of car crimes as investigators work to determine if the crimes are connected.

“I don’t know if it’s teenagers, it’s a ring, definitely happening in groups,” said Johnson. What you have to do is keep your seats clear. It’s your best defense you can do for yourself.”