BAY VILLAGE, Ohio — Police in Bay Village are warning the community about a recent rash of smash-and-grab car break-ins. Thieves are targeting area parking lots and recreational parks.
Officials say criminals have been working quickly on car prowls in broad daylight.
The department posted a message on its Facebook page on Wednesday, cautioning about the recent number of smash-and-grab break-ins.
"Bay Village and surrounding cities have seen an increase in the number of vehicles being broken into during the daylight hours," the message stated. "These smash and grab incidents are occurring in parking lots and recreation areas."
Stacey Smith told 3News that just a few weeks ago, her mother's vehicle was broken into at Cahoon Park. Her purse was stolen.
"Her and her girlfriends always walk over here on the walking path," Smith said. "It was probably about six weeks ago or so and she left her purse on the front seat and so we're a little upset about that."
Police say several cars recently had windows smashed and items stolen in the Metroparks, the parking lot at Columbia Road Beach, and Cahoon Park.
The same spot where Smith's mother's purse was stolen.
"She had a Mercedes SUV and she just walked on back and then there was the glass, so they smashed the window," Smith added. "We've heard a lot about it, but the window was broken, the purse was gone and we haven't gotten anything back."
The department is investigating the sudden spike in burglaries. They say agencies have found these crimes linked to an increase in gang activity in the suburbs.
But why does Bay Village seem to be a target?
"It's (Cahoon Park) right on Lake Road and on a busy street, so the idea that somebody is walking by and just feeling comfortable enough to do it, but I guess they're quick," Smith says. "A lot of people around here feel comfortable, so that's why maybe they're targeting this area?"
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