In light of a rash of car break-ins and thefts throughout the county, the Sheriff’s Office encourages citizens to secure their vehicles.

Vehicle owners throughout the county are waking up each morning to discover that unknown suspect(s) have made entry to their vehicles and stolen property from them overnight. The Sheriff’s Office has fielded dozens of these types of reports just over the last week, from neighborhoods spanning the entire county.

With only a very few exceptions, these victims’ vehicles showed no sign of forced entry, with most reporting that they had left their cars unlocked at the times the thefts occurred. These thefts have occurred both inside gated communities and in non-controlled access neighborhoods. Last week alone, deputies have responded to multiple reports in the Southern part of the county in both Oldfield and Westbury Park. North of the Broad River, the communities of Distant Island and Mink Point have been targeted.

Multiple neighborhoods on Lady’s Island have sustained vehicle break-ins within recent weeks, and again, the majority of these vehicles have been left unlocked.

Residents and visitors in our area are asked to help us deter these crimes of opportunity by securing their vehicles and property. When leaving vehicles unattended, make sure windows are up and doors are locked. Refrain from leaving behind keys and/or items of value, as they may entice would-be thieves to pursue forced entry. If you must leave valuables in your vehicle, concealing them in a locked compartment or trunk is recommended.

Any noted suspicious person(s) or activity should be reported immediately by contacting the Beaufort County Dispatch Center at 843-524-2777.

Make the call, stay anonymous, earn a reward: To report crime, citizens can call Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC (274-6372) or text the word TIPSC with a message to CRIMES (274637).
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