State Police Alert Westmoreland Co. Residents To Record Number Of Vehicle Break-Ins
GREENSBURG (KDKA) -- Vehicle break-ins happen all the time, but for state troopers in Westmoreland County, the totals are unprecedented.
"We've had over 70 vehicles broken into, and that's reported," said Trooper Steven Limani, of Pennsylvania State Police.
The latest cars hit we're here along Donohoe Road in Unity Township.
One woman, who asked not to be identified, said in her family's case, the thieves didn't get much but they had it easy.
"They broke in to my son-in-law's truck and daughter's car," she said. "They really didn't get a lot; it was loose change and some odds in and ends. They left their cars unlocked."
This crime of opportunity spree is happening everywhere.
"The affluent neighborhoods, we'll see them go to through 20 to 30 cars," said Trooper Limani.
But state police have some tips for preventing this from happening to you.
"Everything is on lock down," Trooper Limani said.
Lights are great, and think out of the box.
"If you have the old baby monitors, you might want to set it outside your house, turn it on at night. It will help detect sound," added Trooper Limani.
There's been a well-documented explosion in heroin problems in the county. It may sound strange, but police say these break-ins have a direct correlation.
"Unfortunately, 90 percent of those committing property crimes are doing it for drugs," said Trooper Limani.
You May Also Be Interested In These Latest News Stories
Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter