The Manning Police Department is encouraging residents to lock and secure their vehicles at night after a rash of break-ins where suspects had little trouble gaining access.
“We’ve had this string of break-ins the past few days,” said Capt. Sonia Daniels. “Residents aren’t locking their vehicles, and some unknown person or persons are going through vehicles throughout the night.”
Daniels said the area south of Sunset Drive has been the most heavily affected. She said the suspects have been taking wallets, loose change and money left in the unlocked vehicles overnight.
“Someone had $50 taken out of their car,” Daniels said. “It’s been just random, small items, but even if you get your wallet stolen, you have to go get a new ID and new cards. It’s an inconvenience. And if you have money taken, that’s a bigger inconvenience.”
Daniels urged residents to not only lock their vehicles at night, but to also take valuables with them into their homes.
“Definitely, you should not leave valuables in your vehicle,” she said. “None of these vehicles were secure, and we have to be vigilant at night and secure our vehicles so this kind of thing can’t happen.”
Daniels said no suspects have been identified, but police believe it is likely teenagers or young adults.
“We are asking that, if residents see something strange, anything they think is strange, please call law enforcement immediately,” she said.
Residents may call the Manning Police Department at (803) 435-8859.
