83 Car Break-ins In, Around Minneapolis in 2 Weeks

Drivers are nervous after dozens of car thefts occurred around Minneapolis. While people enjoy the rare treat of walking around Lake Calhoon in mid-November, Minneapolis Police say thieves are enjoying the weather as well.

“If was it was a typical Minnesota November individuals wouldn't be out prowling the cars like they've done thus far,” said Inspector Eddie Frizell from Minneapolis Police Fifth Precinct.

Two weeks ago, drivers in and around Uptown reported 33 car break-ins. Last week police collected more than 50 reports.

“That dramatic increase of theft from motor vehicles it showed up and it showed up fast,” says Frizell.

Police say the thieves are smashing in car windows in order to steal anything of value ranging from golf clubs to laptops, cell phones, GPS units an even one attempt to steal a license plate.

Steven Manley says his driver’s side window was smashed in with a piece of concrete while he ran into his apartment for just 4 minutes.

“I realized my computer, iPod touch and iPhone were stolen,” says Manley. “They did $500 worth of damage and stole $1,600 worth of stuff in 4 minutes.”

Police say several reports came from people who park inside private underground parking structures.

“The one week link is when individuals pull into that underground garage kind of oblivious to their surroundings and individuals slip in behind them once they leave that garage they have a plethora of vehicles to select from,” says Inspector Frizell.

Police have identified two suspects and say concentrated patrols have helped reduce the number of car break-ins this week.

Tips:
Police urge drivers not to leave valuables in their cars.
Also, police suggest writing down serial numbers in case a stolen item is sold to a pawn shop it can be more easily traced.
Plus in a few cases stolen credit cards were used almost immediately. Police suggest making a copies of your credit card company’s 1-800 number so you can cancel stolen credit cards quickly.