Leland Police report string of car break-ins

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — Police with the Town of Leland are reporting a recent string of car break-ins. 

During the last 45 days, police said 16 vehicles have been broken into. All of the cars were unlocked.  

Police said thieves are typically looking for valuable items like cash, electronics, and firearms. Lieutenant Dallas Warren said—although crime in Leland is relatively low—car theft can happen anytime, anywhere. 

“The key takeaway is even though we do live in a safe community, and it kind of goes without saying, but remove any valuables out of the car, especially visible. Wallets, purses, don’t leave cash in the car. Please don’t leave firearms inside the car,” he said. 

Warren said that by comparison, forced entry break-ins, where thieves break a window to get inside the vehicle are rare. So, just locking your car will usually save you from would-be thieves.