NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. (WKBW) — Niagara Falls police are investigating a rash of recent car break-ins. Authorities say it appears the criminals are targeting tourists.
"Because of the fact that there has been a lot of people down there I think that some of the criminals are taking advantage," said Police Chief Thomas Licata.
Chief Licata says criminals walk through parking lots and look for opportunities to break in. No word on how many break-ins, but police noticed it's more than normal.
Police are trying new strategies to deal with the issue and they have made some arrests, but tracking these crimes is difficult.
"[It] would be helpful if we had a more steady pattern, but there's not. It could be 10 o'clock at night, 2 o'clock in the morning, it could be 5 o'clock in the morning," said Chief Licata.
Mayor Robert Restaino says people who live in Niagara Falls and people who are just visiting don't need to worry.
"They should just be aware of their surroundings, make sure that if they see something, say something," said Mayor Restaino.
Police suggest you take these precautions as well:
- Park in well-lit areas
- Keep valuable items out of sight
- Take your keys with you
- Always lock your doors
