Some Tampa neighborhoods are now seeing a drastic spike in auto burglaries, according to Tampa Police.
Between July 1 and July 24, police have investigated 36 auto burglaries. In all but seven of the cases, car owners left the vehicle doors unlocked.
In the other break-ins, the suspects smashed windows to get to valuables left in plain view inside the cars.
Vehicle owners reported several expensive items stolen from their vehicles, including a gift card worth several hundred dollars, iPhones, designer sunglasses and even diamonds.
So far, police have made arrests in six of the 36 recent auto burglary cases in District 3.
In at least one case, the suspects were kids, caught stealing a phone and tools.
Tampa Police continue to investigate these auto burglaries and encourage people to lock their doors every night. They also encourage people to take any valuables out of the vehicle.
If you spot suspicious activity in your neighborhood please don't hesitate to call the non-emergency number at (813) 231-6130, police said.
