Sumter police: After rash of break-ins, lock cars, remove valuables

Following several vehicle break-ins during the past two weeks, the Sumter Police Department is advising community members to remove their belongings, as well as keys, key fobs and firearms, from vehicles and lock them.

According to Tonyia McGirt, public information officer for the police department, groups of individuals are targeting neighborhoods with the primary intent of stealing firearms and cars.

She said officers have responded to more than 40 reports, the majority of which involved vehicles that were left unlocked, in the past two weeks.

"The most prudent method to reduce this type of crime is for everyone to take seriously the need to remove anything of value from your car and then lock it, whether in your driveway or in a public parking lot," said Sumter Police Department Chief Russell Roark. "Oftentimes, these individuals will walk from location to location pulling up on door handles to see whether your car is locked. However, when something of value, even a key or fob, is visible, they then resort to other measures to enter your vehicle and take what's yours. The time of day or location isn't much of a factor as long as there's something they want."

Roark also said another step is to pay attention to your surroundings and notify police if you see anyone or anything out of the ordinary.

Residents should call 911 immediately if they see unusual activity. If possible, provide descriptions of individuals or vehicles and a direction of travel.

Also, if you know who could be involved in these crimes, contact the Sumter Police Department at (803) 436-2700 or Crime Stoppers at1-888-CRIME-SC.

A cash reward may be available for information leading to an arrest.

Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers by logging onto www.P3tips.com and clicking on the "Submit a New Tip" tab or by downloading the new P3 Tips app for Apple and Android devices.