Rash of thefts from cars reported in Clayton

CLAYTON, North Carolina (WTVD) -- A dozen people in Clayton woke up Wednesday morning to find they had been the victims of theft.

Overnight, police said electronics, purses, wallets, and more were removed from vehicles that had been left unlocked in three different neighborhoods. All of the break-ins happened sometime between midnight and 7 a.m.

Investigators said all the thefts could have been avoided and The Clayton Police Department reminds residents that while they live in a safe community there has been an increase in "crimes of opportunity" like these.

Thieves will go to neighborhoods and apartment complexes like those hit overnight and simply open the doors of unlocked cars taking whatever is left in plain sight. Police say don't make it easy for them.

• Always lock your vehicle
• Do not leave valuables in your vehicle
• If you must leave something valuable; hide it or lock it a glove box if possible
• If you witness suspicious behavior anywhere call 911 immediately.

If you have any information about the rash of break-ins please call Clayton Police at (919) 553-4611