Police Seek Suspect In East End Smash And Grab Break-Ins
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Police in the city's East End are issuing a warning following a flurry of car break-ins.
In the past two weeks, thieves have hit scores of parked cars, smashing windows and grabbing valuables.
"It's spread out," said Lt. Craig Campbell. "We're seeing it in Shadyside, Squirrel Hill and Oakland. It's not really concentrated in one area."
Since the beginning of the month, 64 cars have been hit in the city's East End, targeting parked cars on streets like Northumberland and Barnsdale Streets in Squirrel Hill.
On Monday night, there were to car break-ins on Boundary Street in Oakland.
"People are leaving high-dollar items – laptops, money, wallets," said Lt. Campbell. "They're leaving them on the seat or they're getting out and their tucking them under the seat and people are seeing them put a purse or a wallet in there, and somebody's watching and comes along and takes that item."
In addition to the stolen items, victims need to have their car windows replaced. It's a process that can cost up to $300 or more.
So, police are asking for the public to report any lurking individuals while they take steps on their own.
"We're addressing the issue two-fold," said Lt. Campbell. "We have plainclothes officers addressing the situation and we have stepped up patrols in the area. We're hopeful of catching the guy in the act."
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