The Oil City police department is asking for the community’s help as it investigates a series of thefts from motor vehicles in the South Side’s residential areas.
Police chief Bob Wenner said the thefts have been an ongoing issue, but the latest round took place between Wednesday night and Thursday morning.
The thieves smashed open windows of vehicles and entered other vehicles that were left unsecured.
Wenner said the affected area ranges from East and West Third streets to East and West Seventh streets.
Anyone with information on the crimes is asked to contact Oil City police at 678-3080.
Those who wish to report information anonymously can do so via Venango County Crime Stoppers at (814) 676-9162, www.vccrimestoppers.iwarp.com or on their Facebook page.
As a precaution, police are asking residents to double-check that their vehicles are locked before going to bed and, if possible, to leave a porch or exterior light on to illuminate their vehicles.
In addition, police said residents should not leave valuables in plain sight because it could attract the individuals who are committing the crimes.
