Cars Stolen From Westlake Home, Police Warn Residents

WESTLAKE, OH — Several vehicles were stolen from homes in Westlake last weekend.

On Saturday and Sunday, thieves targeted unlocked cars and stole items, police announced. They also stole "several vehicles," police added.

"This is just another reminder to keep vehicles locked and to remove valuable item," a Westlake police spokesperson said.

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The thefts in Westlake preceded a rash of similar crimes in Strongsville. Several unlocked cars were rifled through and some were stolen, according to police in that city.

Last fall, Cleveland's western suburbs saw a swift uptick in thefts from unlocked cars and then, eventually, thefts of cars themselves.

Residents can follow simple, commonsense tactics to protect themselves, police said:

• Park your car in a garage, if you can
• Lock your car overnight
• Don't keep car keys inside your car
• Don't keep valuables inside your car
• Contact police if you see someone suspicious in your neighborhood, particularly if they're prowling around between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.