GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — School campuses became targets for thieves who broke into nearly 40 cars belonging to Gwinnett County school teachers and staff.
On Tuesday, 37 cars were broken into across three school campuses during school hours, according to police.
[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]
Victims reported purses, credit cards, and electronics stolen with windows smashed as well.
“We have increased our patrols around our schools for greater visibility,” said Gwinnett County Schools Police Chief Tony Lockard.
The crime spree started at around 12:30 p.m. and involved Archer High School, Brookwood Elementary, and Trip Elementary.
Investigators have video of the suspects in the act but they aren’t releasing it for now.
They say the people responsible are in their late teens or early 20s.
“We do not believe they were students,” said Lockard.
TRENDING STORIES:
- Officials: Amazon driver accused of stealing French bulldog while delivering packages
- 4 towing companies sue judges saying lots are overflowing with abandoned cars because of them
- Georgia mail carrier found bloodied on garage floor after being attacked by dogs, deputies say
The message to teachers, staff, and parents is that even schools can become hot spots for criminals.
“We want people to be vigilant and protect their items,” the chief said.
[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
IN OTHER NEWS:
©2023 Cox Media Group