Montgomery County, Maryland, police said car break-ins are causing big problems for victims, bank, retail stores and officers.
Police said many of the break-ins are occurring with vehicles that are not locked, leaving valuables in reach of thieves. Warnings are being posted on neighborhood online forums about removing items from vehicles and locking the doors.
Montgomery County police Lt. Mike Ruane said the crimes affect many people.
“They're finding credit cards that then turn into problem for banks and retail stores,” Ruane said. “(It is) causing a huge amount of work for police departments.”
Police said thefts from unlocked cars is on the rise in Bethesda, Rockville and Wheaton. They said it is also a nationwide problem.
