WILMINGTON — The past two weeks have seen a string of over 70 car break-ins around the Port City. The Wilmington Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the suspects, but even more so, to help protect the city.
In a press conference held at WPD headquarters, Chief Ralph Evangelous said that the suspects are targeting unlocked vehicles, mainly in the south side of the city, taking anything of value.
This includes “electronics, loose change, phones, tablets, computers and unfortunately guns, lots of guns.”
According to the Chief, out of the 70 break-ins, approximately 31 firearms have been stolen in the city. Since 2014, over 200 weapons have been stolen, mainly from unlocked cars.
“Be a responsible gun owner. Do not leave firearms in your vehicle,” Evangelous said. “This year alone, an additional 31 illegal fire arms are now in the hands of criminals, which could have easily been prevented had you removed your firearms from your cars.”
“People ask ‘where are the weapons coming from out there?’ They’re coming from your cars, and your homes. Secure your weapons.”
He noted that these numbers only include the city of Wilmington. Break-ins have been occurring across the New Hanover County, with the New Hanover County Sheriff reporting several in the Ogden area this week.
Evangelous says this is becoming a serious problem, “one we need to get a handle on.”
“Be responsible gun owners, secure your weapons,” Evangelous said. “People ask ‘where are the weapons coming from out there?’ They’re coming from your cars, and your homes. Secure your weapons.”
According to Wilmington Police Chief Ralph Evengelous, these thefts have been occurring primarily between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., on the south side of the city. Victims admit that they did not lock their cars, or were not sure if they had locked their cars.
“I’m here today to our citizens to properly secure your valuables in your cars. Remove loose change, purses, electronics from your cars,” Evangelous said. “Put away chargers, or anything that might lure the suspects to their vehicles.
“Keep your car parked in visible in well-lit areas. Make sure the alarm on your vehicle is working, and if you hear it go off, don’t ignore it. And lastly, don’t leave guns unattended in your cars.”
The suspects are believed to be two, possibly three, white males, in their 20s or 30s, working together. Surveillance footage has shown them wearing hats, gloves, and backpacks. It’s believed they’re possibly using bicycles as their primary mode of transportation.
WPD is asking anyone with information about these crimes, or the identity of one of the suspects, to use the Text-a-Tip line, or call (910) 343-3609.
Get in touch with Reporter Cory Mannion: follow him on Facebook, Twitter, or send an email at cory@localvoicemedia.com.
