Official release on car break-ins

On 5-9-11, the Columbia Police Department received numerous calls from residents regarding their vehicles being entered and items being taken.
A number of different items were taken from the vehicles, including but not limited to a GPS unit, bookbags, and a Beretta .32 caliber pistol. Many of the vehicles that were entered were unlocked, however, at least one vehicle was locked, and the perpetrators forcibly entered the locked vehicle by breaking a window. These thefts occurred during the overnight hours, and were not limited to a specific area of Columbia.


The Columbia Police are actively investigating these thefts and are speaking to potential witnesses.
The Columbia Police wish to remind its residents that it is of paramount importance to ensure that all unattended vehicles are locked, even if the vehicles are parked in a private driveway. The Columbia Police also recommend removing valuables from vehicles when they are parked. However, if valuables are left in vehicles, it is wise to secure the items and keep them from plain view.

Anyone with information about these thefts is to contact Sgt. Marc Tremblay or Officer Troy Engle at 717-684-7735.
Also, the Columbia Police wish to encourage its residents to contact the Police immediately if they notice suspicious vehicles or persons around their vehicles or property.