Mason police warn residents about surge of car break-ins

MASON, Ohio - Mason police are warning residents that there has been a recent surge of automobile break-ins during the past few weeks.

As many as 17 thefts were reported in just one night. Over the last three weeks, 28 car break-ins happened in Mason.

However, the thieves did not smash windows to get the possessions left in the vehicle.

"Most of the cars that we have that people go into are unlocked. Occasionally a window will be broken out. But that is rather rare. Most of the time it's cars that are unlocked," said Mason Police Sgt. John Cullen.

Police say most thefts occur at night in residential neighborhoods. The most recent hit included the subdivisions of Hickory Woods, Codington Reserve and Birchwood Farms. As a result, officials are asking residents to not leave valuables in their cars and make sure vehicles are locked at all times.

"Sometimes I leave my purse or things. So I guess I am going to have to make an extra trip and get my stuff. Yeah, I'll have to do that from now on," said Hickory Woods resident Susanna Castellanos.

Below is a list of tips on how to protect your car and belongings:

• Don't leave possessions in plain sight, including laptops, iPhones, iPods, etc.
• Always lock your car.
• If possible, keep your vehicle in a garage or park near the roadway.
• Install timers or motion sensors to turn lights on when you're not home or when asleep.

Police also say to report any suspicious behavior right away, including the following:

• Anyone you see that seems suspicious on your street.
• If you hear an unusual noise during the night.
• If you see people walking behind buildings or around cars, looking in windows.
• Report all break-ins even if nothing was taken.

Officers say they would rather respond "to a dozen calls that lead to nothing than not get the one call that would help them catch a thief."

In an emergency, Mason residents can always dial 911. However, if the suspicions are less serious, Mason police recommend calling their non-emergency number at (513) 925-2525 to reach an officer on duty.