Clay County residents upset after rise in break-ins

Vehicle smash and grabs are spiking and drivers in Clay County are being left with broken glass and stolen valuables.

Action News Jax obtained auto burglary reports from Clay County Sheriff’s Office.

In them, deputies said suspects are targeting vehicles in the Fleming Island, Eagle Harbor, and Orange Park areas.

“Even if I’m here in a good place, good neighborhood, I don’t trust,” said neighbor, Abby Lopez.

Your car can be singled out, even in broad daylight, for what’s sitting on the seat or in the center console.

Deputies said suspects are targeting vehicles in which the owners have left their valuables, including purses, wallets and even cell phones in plain sight.

Here’s the CCSO post on Facebook:

"Over the last several weeks there have been a series of auto burglaries. The suspect(s) are targeting vehicles parked in the rear of business in the Fleming Island/Eagle Harbor and Orange Park areas of Clay County. The suspect targets those vehicles in which the owners have left their valuables (purses, wallets, etc.) in plain view. The suspect breaks one of the vehicle windows, removes the valuables in plain view, and then quickly flees the area. Please remove or conceal all valuables in your vehicle when you leave it unattended no matter where or what time of day it is! There is never a bad time to do the #9PMRoutine #CCSOFL #CheckitChirpit"

A neighbor admitted to us, she left cash in her car.

"When I came back to my car, I was looking for my money, and it was no more," said Melchora Buchloski.

Sadly, her $400 were stolen.

As for Abby Lopez, she told us she’s extremely careful and doesn’t leave any personal items in her car.

“But now, knowing about this (news) I will keep it in mind even more,” said Lopez.

She said if people consider leaving items behind, she offers this advice.

“If you do, cover it with something -- blankets, sweater or with whatever you have,” said Lopez.

Cox Media Group