Hamilton police warn residents of car break-ins

Hamilton police are warning residents about a spate of car break-ins in the Durand and Kirkendall area in recent weeks.

They have released photos of a man who they say is responsible for many of the incidents. They are asking the public to help them identify him.

The man is targeting underground parking garages of highrise buildings, police said. The man allegedly gets inside the garages by prying open locks to the main entrances, following other cars or finding insecure areas around the buildings.

Once the man gets inside, he often smashes the cars' windows and then take electronics, loose change and other items in view, police said. 

The alleged thefts primarily take place during the evening and early morning hours when cars tend to be parked, police said. 

Police are reminding residents to take the following precautions:

• Secure any valuables in cars.
• Don't leave any electronics or loose change in view. 
• Remove suction cups for GPS devices.
• Never leave a bag or purse in the car, even for a short period of time. 
• Ensure that all keycards are accounted for. Report missing cards to building property managers so they can be deactivated immediately. 

Police are also asking the public to report similar incidents.