Vehicle Theft Ongoing Problem in Toccoa

Toccoa Police Chief Tim Jarrell reports that thefts from unlocked vehicles is an ongoing issue in the area.

Just since June 8, there have been four incidences of people’s vehicles being entered.

Earlier this month, the Toccoa Police Department made four arrests for individuals who were stealing from unlocked vehicles. Those individuals are still in jail, however, the issue has continued.

According to Jarrell, recently the problem has been occurring in the residential area behind CVS Pharmacy.

“We’ve been having problems in that area before but this is not the same area that the arrests took place,” said Jarrell.

Jarrell said they have persons of interest, but not enough to make any arrests. In order to prevent this issue from continuing, Jarrell urges citizens to lock their vehicles.

“We do want to tell our citizens to please lock their vehicle doors,” said Jarrell. “The items that are missing are change, sunglasses, CD’s- they’re small items but that doesn’t mean that large items have not been taken that we haven’t been made aware of yet.”

These thefts are occurring after dark with cars parked in driveways or under carports. Jarrell said this problem is local, but other communities are experiencing the same incidents.

He said another way to avoid being a victim of this crime is for neighbors to look out for each other.

Officers are continuing to look for suspects linked to this crime and are out on foot looking for suspicious activity. In the meantime, citizens should be sure to lock their vehicles.