Rash of Smyrna Car Break-Ins

Editor's note: Smyrna City Councilman Wade Lnenicka took time during Monday's council meeting to warn Smyrna residents as a whole, and those that reside in Ward 6 specifically, about a sudden spike in car break-ins. The following is an email he sent to Ward 6 residents late Monday night.

Dear Ward 6 Residents, Business Owners and Friends:

Our Smyrna Ward 6 is normally a place of serenity as regards most local crimes that are reported every month. There is not a lot of serious criminal activity happening in Ward 6 on any regular basis. However, from time to time something will happen to change that serenity. This is one of those times. Please read the following carefully and consider what precautions you might wish to take to protect your family and property.

In the last week and a half there have been more than 30 reported car break-ins in Ward 6. In very general terms, the main areas affected are bounded by the railroad line on the east, South Cobb Drive on the west, the Ridge Road neighborhoods on the south and the Concord Road neighborhoods on the north.

I've seen police data suggesting that nine different neighborhoods have been targeted, so this is a widespread situation. Valuables have been stolen from locked and unlocked vehicles parked at residential homes and townhomes. In at least one known case, a pistol was taken from a person licensed to carry one but who left it in their vehicle overnight. Thus, we must consider the perpetrator(s) armed and possibly dangerous.

Friday nights have been the worst nights with almost half the total thefts. But, other incidents have been reported (from highest to lowest frequency) on Thursday nights, Saturday nights, and Sunday and Monday nights (tied). All the thefts were during night hours. Car doors were left open after the thefts, probably to avoid making any noise from closing them. Some information about alleged perpetrators has been received and detectives are working to identify the people doing this.

So, what should you do?

First, if you park your vehicle outside, remove any valuables from it. Don't leave computers, GPS units, handbags, valuables, weapons, etc. in your vehicle as these items are vulnerable to theft. (Obviously, if you have a garage it is best if you park your vehicle in it and close and lock the door.)

Second, lock the vehicle's doors. Leave on an outside light or two illuminating the vehicle. Park it where it is visible from inside your home and to neighbors.

Third, be alert. Watch for anything unusual going on in your neighborhood. Be watchful not only over your vehicle but those belonging to your neighbors. Use the Neighborhood Watch system if your neighborhood is involved in it.

If you see something suspicious, what should you do? 

Answer: Dial 9-1-1 and let the Smyrna Police Department respond and check out whoever or whatever is going on outside. 

Do NOT attempt to confront anyone yourself. Again, they may now be armed. Next, take notes on anything you can see that will help the police get a description of the people or vehicles they are using in the crimes. Share that with the Officers who respond.

Please share this warning and information with your family, friends and neighbors. Stay safe!

Best wishes,

Wade Lnenicka

Mayor Pro Tem & Councilman, Ward 6

City of Smyrna

www.smyrnacity.com