Battle Creek Alerts
Battle Creek police alert neighbors to increase in vehicle thefts
BATTLE CREEK, Mich. – The Battle Creek Police Department is alerting neighbors to an increase in vehicle thefts and attempted vehicle thefts reported over the past month.
During the month of August, BCPD received eight reports of stolen vehicles, all of which were later recovered. Officers also responded to 13 reported attempted vehicle thefts.
The vehicles targeted in these incidents have primarily been Kia and Hyundai models.
Investigators believe these thefts and attempted thefts are connected and involve multiple juveniles. Detectives are actively working to identify those responsible, connect related incidents, and determine the full scope of the activity.
Most of the incidents have occurred overnight, generally between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. The activity has largely been concentrated in the Post-Franklin neighborhood and in the Columbia Avenue/Southwest Capital Avenue corridor extending toward Goguac Avenue.
While the stolen vehicles have generally been recovered within one or two days, vehicle thefts and attempted thefts can leave owners with significant repair costs, transportation challenges, and other impacts.
The BCPD is using victim reports, witness information, surveillance footage and other evidence to identify suspects, connect cases and focus enforcement efforts in affected areas.
Neighbors can help by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activity as soon as possible. Anyone who witnesses suspicious behavior or an attempted vehicle theft should call 911 immediately.
When it is safe to do so, provide dispatchers or responding officers with as much information as possible, including the location, direction of travel, descriptions of individuals, clothing, vehicle information and license plate numbers. Timely reporting helps officers identify patterns, connect related incidents, and intervene before additional crimes occur.
Anyone with information about these incidents is encouraged to contact the Battle Creek Police Department at 269-781-0911 or submit an anonymous tip through Silent Observer or by calling 269-964-3888.
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City of Battle Creek Communications Office 10 N. Division Street, Battle Creek, MI 49014 (269) 966-3311 publicinput@battlecreekmi.gov |