Caution Urged: South Lake Tahoe Burglaries and Car Thefts on Rise

South Lake Tahoe Police report that home and car burglaries are on the rise in the city. Unattended cars being warmed up on cold mornings are also tempting car thieves so caution is urged at home and with vehicles.

Lt. Brian Willians of the SLTPD is advising residents that a warming up car left alone is a tempting invitation to a thief. Keep cars locked when parked and don't leave home windows and doors unlocked and open.

During the week of October 23 to 30 there was 1 auto theft and 6 burglaries in the city limits. Since September 19 the SLTPD has responded to 15 auto theft calls.

A burglary ring was broken up on October 18 when 3 South Lake Tahoe residents were arrested while breaking into a Douglas County home. According to Williams about 150 homes were burglarized by the group and thousands of items have been recovered. It may turn out that many more homes have been affected when 2nd home owners return to town. In order to return belongings to their owners, the police department is cataloging all the recovered items and may soon release photos and information in order to reunite owner with item.