The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is reporting a sudden uptick in handgun theft right now. They're saying it's part of a wave of car burglaries in the area. Now authorities are advising people to change their behavior to avoid becoming a victim.
The Washoe County Sheriff's Office says the cold weather could provide opportunities for thieves to steal from your car, or your car itself. "Wear gloves. Turn on your heater. Do not start your car and let it warm up without you being in it," said WCSO Public Information Officer Sarah Johns.
The sheriff's office says there's already a rash of vehicle burglaries right now. 17 over the last 5 weeks that's more than twice what it was last year. Two weeks ago, WCSO reported thefts along Mount Rose Highway. There are also incidents reported in Arrow Creek and further north in Hidden Valley. It's unknown if the thefts are related, but there are some similarities. "Victims are either leaving their vehicle unlocked or they are leaving valuables for a burglar to see," said Johns.
Even more alarming is that multiple handguns have been stolen as part of the thefts. So the WCSO is asking gun owners to take precautions. "If you have a weapon in your vehicle and you're going home (or you're going away from your vehicle for a substantial amount of time). Please take your weapon inside," said Johns.
They're asking for help from other drivers as well. "We do see trends in people's behaviors that help burglars," said Johns.
Steps to prevent car burglaries include not leaving valuables in the car, making sure there's no visible items of value, making sure you set the car alarm, and most importantly, closing your windows and locking your doors when leaving the car.
If you have any information concerning the car burglaries or the missing handguns please contact the Washoe County Sheriff's Office immediately.
