Rash of thefts, burglaries reported in Anniston

Anniston police say they have been investigating a rash of thefts and break-ins in two parts of town.

Police have taken more car burglary reports than usual lately at the Anniston Plaza, often from people who park cars their overnight.

They've also gotten reports of both homes and cars being broken into, in a five block area of Leighton and Christine avenues on the eastside.

Police warn residents to keep their cars and homes locked.

They say many of the break-ins involved cars that weren't locked, and in one case, the motor was even left running.

"I know a lot of people think criminals will go to any extreme necessary to get what they want, but that's not always the case. They're looking for crimes of opportunity. So we want people to lock up their belongings, get them out of sight," Sgt. Josh Doggrell with the Anniston Police Department said.

Police say they've also seen empty homes for sale broken into for wiring or appliances. They say that number has gone up due to the problems with the housing number.

Copyright 2012 WBRC. All rights reserved.