Teens Target Open Urbandale Garage Doors to Steal Beer

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Many people leave their garages open while they are home, but Urbandale Police are warning residents to make a habit of keeping garage doors closed or risk having your beer stolen or much worse.

Three Urbandale teenagers were arrested after police say they entered an open garage and stole beer, according to a KCCI report.

While beer may seem harmless, this incident is considered a burglary, which is a felony, police say. And, it serves as a good reminder that much more valuable items could be at risk.

One resident happened to notice teens enter his garage, and they played it off as though they were looking for directions, according to KCCI. That night neighbors tipped off police to the teens.

Here's more from KCCI:

They were caught that night thanks to vigilant neighbors.

Police believe they may have been involved in dozens more cases like it and urge citizens to come forward because even if the target is just a beer, it's still a felony offense.

"They're breaking into that house," Officer Randy Peterson said.  "Even though the garage door is open they don't have a legal right to be in that garage so therefore it is considered a burglary."