The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning to local residents: burglars are on the hunt, and unlocked vehicles are becoming their primary target.
Authorities say that the thieves are after guns, money, and other valuables left in cars.
Sheriff’s office spokesperson Gabriella Ruiz urged residents to take simple precautions to protect their belongings.
“A really easy way to prevent this is to just do that 9 p.m. routine. Lock your doors. Make sure you bring your valuables inside, especially your firearms. You don't want to leave these opportunities out for the criminals,” she said.
The warning follows a recent incident on January 2nd, around 1 a.m. when a Ring doorbell camera captured two suspects attempting to open car doors on Nowell Avenue, a residential street off Yorkshire Street in Port Charlotte. A third suspect was seen waiting in a getaway vehicle.
Detectives are currently investigating the case, but so far, they have reached a dead end and are asking the public for assistance in identifying the suspects.
Local residents, including Dawn Morgan, are not taking these incidents lightly. Morgan, a Port Charlotte resident, has a strong message for anyone considering targeting her neighborhood again. “We got some ex-military guys on this block. So, yeah, it’s going to be handled,” she stated confidently.
Her message to the suspects is clear: “Cut it out. We work hard for what we want. We don’t beg, we don’t borrow. We work hard, and so go find a job. Go do something with yourself.”
The Sheriff’s office is calling on anyone who may recognize the trio involved in the attempted car break-ins to come forward. Tipsters can remain anonymous by calling (941) 639-2101.
The Sheriff's office reminds residents to remain vigilant and lock their vehicles, especially during the overnight hours.