CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – The Clarksville Police Department has issued a reminder for residents to lock their vehicles.
So far in 2018, 449 vehicles have been broken into and 59 guns stolen.
Police say many of these incidents could have been prevented by residents simply removing valuables and locking their vehicles.
According to a post on the Clarksville Police Facebook page, 68% of the vehicle burglaries showed no signs of forced entry, meaning they were left unlocked by owners.
It’s common for these criminals to walks neighborhoods after dark pulling door handles until they find an unlocked vehicle in a practice known as ‘car hopping.’
Police remind residents to report any suspicious activity or individuals in your neighborhood. Do not leave any valuables in your vehicle, especially firearms. Take the extra minute to secure your personal property and lock your vehicles, even if your vehicle is in your yard or driveway.