LAKEWOOD, Ohio — The Lakewood Police Department is investigating a series of license plate swaps that happened over the weekend in the Nicholson-Emerson-Harlon area.
As a result of the recent incidents, police are asking residents to verify that their vehicles have the correct license plates before driving.
In addition, Lakewood police have distributed notices to every residence in the affected area.
Residents can check their Vehicle Registration Card or visit bmv.ohio.gov to confirm their license plate number.
If a plate swap is discovered, residents should contact the Lakewood police non-emergency line at 216-521-6773.
"The switching of license plates is considered a felony theft offense, and any and all perpetrators will be charged and prosecuted accordingly," said Lakewood police in a press release.
Lakewood police are advising residents to use locking screws or fasteners, which can be found at hardware or auto parts stores.