RICHLAND COUNTY, S.C. — The Richland County Sheriff Department is calling on residents to take further measures when it comes to protecting themselves and their valued possessions from car break-ins, after a rash of crimes this past weekend.
Multiple vehicle break-ins occurred over the weekend according to deputies. Many of these incidents involved broken windows.
Richland deputies reported that since Jan. 21, there have been 36 reported thefts from vehicles, and firearms were taken from 12 of those vehicles.
The department said Sheriff Leon Lott sends a reminder to the community to lock their vehicles and remove all valuables, including weapons.
"Anytime I discuss gun violence, someone asks where the guns are coming from. These thieves are targeting vehicles to find guns and they are succeeding," Sheriff Lott said in a release. "Simply locking your car doors is not enough- take the guns inside and store them safely."