Rash of home burglaries in Ormond Beach

ORMOND BEACH, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - Residents in Ormond Beach are being vigilant after a recent rash of car break-ins, home burglaries and car thefts all over the city.   That's why Ormond Beach Police Chief Jesse Godrey says they are stepping up patrols in the area. 

"We've had 24 car breaks, and nine stolen vehicles during the last two weeks, which is a pretty big spike for this city," he said, adding that unlocked car doors are giving the thieves easy access to homes.  "Some of the victims are leaving their extra set of keys in the cars or their garage door opener, which in turn leads to the criminals stealing the car or clicking the button.  The garage door goes up, then they go inside and see another car and maybe steal that one."

Officers will also compare notes with Flagler County after a rash of car break-ins there.  In light of the break-ins, neighbors say they will be extra careful making sure to lock their car doors and keep their garage doors down.

Ormond Beach Police say they are also looking at surveillance images and video to help with their investigation.