OVERLAND PARK, Kan. -- Overland Park police are warning residents in the Shannon Valley and Indian Creek neighborhoods of an increase in vehicle thefts.
Police said the targets are cars parked outside, either in driveways or on the street.
While many car thefts involve doors being left unlocked, that's not the case in these neighborhoods.
Five vehicles have been stolen from the area in just two weeks.
People who live here say that kind of crime just doesn't happen here.
“We consider it a very safe neighborhood. I mean, we lock our windows and doors and our cars up every night, but we feel like it’s a pretty stable place," said Dan Vogler, who lives in Shannon Valley.
Vogler said he will be sure to lock his car doors at night, but Officer John Lacy from the Overland Park Police Department said that likely won't stop these thieves.
Lacy said the windows have been smashed in order to get inside the vehicles that have been stolen.
“They’re breaking the window and they’re tampering with the steering wheel column and that’s how they are getting away with the vehicles," said Lacy.
Lacy also said there doesn't seem to be specific targets when it comes to make or model of the vehicles being taken.
"This one, this is pretty random," said Lacy.
Vogler said he will be keeping an eye out for anything suspicious.
“We have watchful people within the neighborhood who take care of one another so maybe we oughta amp that up a little bit," said Vogler.
Which is exactly what police are urging residents to do.
"If you see something suspicious don’t hesitate, give us a call," said Lacy.
One of the stolen vehicles was recovered in Missouri. Lacy said they are currently holding it for evidence.
Overland Park police have increased patrols in the area, especially at night.
Police also recommend that if you have a garage, park your car inside.
