FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Burglars targeted a gated Fort Myers apartment complex, Wednesday, stealing one car and burglarizing 4 others.
The break-ins happened to unlocked cars within the Lakes of College Pointe community between the hours of 1 and 7 AM. A gun was stolen from one car. Deputies found no sign of forced entry. A Blue Honda Civic was also stolen from the property after the thief found keys in the cars center console. That car was unlocked. Neighbors tell Fox 4 a gate within the community was broken. "It makes me feel unsafe," said one resident. "I realize that people can somehow get into a community, but it's less likely to happen if your consistently gated."
However, law enforcement says residents may also open themselves up as targets by leaving their cars unlocked.
The Lakes of College Pointe is not the only community that has encountered burglars looking for unlocked cars recently. A week ago, thieves targeted The Promenade at Reflection Lake, another gated community in the area, looking for unlocked cars. "I got in and both of my glove compartments were open, both the sun visors are down, my passenger door was slightly cracked open," said one resident.
The Lee County Sheriff's Office said the break-ins seem sporadic. However, they still advise everyone to keep their valuables out of sight and always lock your car.
If you have any information concerning who is responsible for these break-ins, call Southwest Florida Crimestoppers and 1(800) 780-TIPS. Or visit their website. Tips are anonymous, and you could earn a cash reward.
