Conyers police investigate rash of car break-ins

CONYERS, Ga. — Conyers police are warning drivers to beware after a rash of car break-ins.
 
Police said the thief has hit about 15 cars in the last few weeks.
 
In each case, police said the thief targeted Ford vehicles, popped out the lock and stole whatever he could in just seconds.
 
"They took three Vera Bradley zip bags, cosmetic bags.  Two had money in it," said Melody Dobbs.
 
Dobbs said someone broke into her SUV while she was eating lunch at a Cracker Barrel in Conyers a few weeks ago.
 
"The locked was popped.  I kept saying there's no broken glass or anything.  How could they get in it?" said Dobbs.
 
Conyers police said they've seen an increase in car break-ins since the first of the year.  Police said they're targeting commercial districts right off of Interstate 20.
 
Investigators have linked a silver BMW to at least two of the break-ins.
 
Conyers police spokesperson Kim Lucas said the culprits are targeting early to mid-2000 model Ford trucks and SUVs.
 
"Checks, passports, jewelry, cash, even sometimes firearms.  It's important you don't leave these items unsecured in your vehicle," said Kim Lucas.
 
According to an incident report, the thief stole items from a sheriff's deputy visiting from the Augusta area.  The report said the person got away with two department-issued handguns, a badge and handcuffs.
 
Conyers police are asking anyone with information on who might be behind the thefts to give them a call at (770) 483-6600.

WSBTV