Lexus Stolen From Westlake Home, Unlocked Cars Rifled Through

WESTLAKE, OH — Thieves stole a Lexus and numerous items from unlocked cars in Westlake on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, police announced.

The owner of the Lexus left their keys in the unlocked car overnight. The thieves actually moved one car — also unlocked, also with its keys left inside overnight — so they could maneuver the Lexus out of the driveway.

The thieves also rifled through more than 10 cars and made off with wallets, iPads, and computers, according to Cpt. Gerald Vogel of Westlake police. Every targeted vehicle was left unlocked overnight.

The thefts took place on Laughlin Lane, Wakefield, Balmoral, Bassett, Settlers Reserve, Woodmill and Graystone, Vogel said.

Police reminded residents that they should complete a nightly security check on their vehicles. That means, ensuring all vehicles are locked (and check the doors on your home too), and all valuables are removed from vehicles, including the keys to the vehicle.

If residents see any suspicious activity in their neighborhood, they should contact Westlake police immediately.

"We will have extra patrols of the neighborhoods but your eyes and ears are force multipliers," Vogel said. "A quick report can stop these thieves in their tracks. Hearing about suspicious activity the next day is helpful, but hearing about it when it is happening can allow our officers to check on activity immediately."