Burglaries, thefts hit residents, businesses

Demopolis residents need to take precautions to prevent being the victims of thefts.

Police Chief Rex Flowers said Thursday that a rash of burglaries and vehicle thefts have occurred in the city over the past three weeks.

Such property crimes come in spurts, he said, but residents can help prevent them by taking simple steps.

Four vehicles were stolen recently, and in all cases the keys had been left inside creating a “crime of opportunity,” Flowers said.

Break-ins occurred in two homes and two businesses. In one incident, the resident was in the home, but it is believed the burglar didn’t know it at the time.

Thieves took cell phones, guns and wallets, the chief said.

Flowers urged everyone make sure their vehicles and homes are locked whenever they are away. He regrets those in Demopolis no longer can leave their homes without worry.

“That’s not the world we live in anymore.”