Lincoln County officials investigating series of thefts from unlocked vehicles

Lincoln County sheriff’s deputies are investigating a rash of thefts from unlocked vehicles northeast of Lincolnton.

Residents began reporting the break-ins over the weekend to vehicles parked at homes on Dove Tree Lane, Shady Brook Lane and Springs East Road, officials said. Items stolen in the break-ins include GPS units, tools, billfolds, identification and cash, officials said. All of the break-ins involved unlocked vehicles and occurred overnight.

Investigators say similar break-ins were reported in the same general area two weeks ago on Buffalo Shoals Road, Ivey Church Road, Kinks Lane, Forest Road and Shuford Road.

“As in previous cases deputies investigating found the vehicles have been unlocked,” said Tim Johnson with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Dept. “So far the thieves have not shown a tendency to break into locked vehicles, because they want to get in and out of the area as quick as possible.”

Tips are being sought in the cases and can be phoned into Crime Stoppers at 704-736-8909, or persons with information can call the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 704-732-9050.

This story was originally published June 29, 2015 at 3:06 PM with the headline "Lincoln County officials investigating series of thefts from unlocked vehicles."