“Crimes of Opportunity” in South Zanesville

The South Zanesville Police Department is investigating what they call "crimes of opportunity".

During Sunday and Monday night there was a rash of thefts on South Pembroke Avenue, Kensington Avenue and Edmund Street. South Zanesville Police Chief, Eric Finley, says he believes the thefts are connected

"It is similar items that are being taken. Scrap metal things that people think might be junk, I have had tools taken, out of vehicles I’ve had a ladder taken out of a carport at a residence," says Chief Eric Finley.

Thieves also took a battery, half an aluminum garage door, a V-8 engine block and ransacked cars. Chief Finley says he believes the motive behind the crimes is that junk value has risen in the last few weeks. Since thieves are taking anything that isn’t nailed down, Chief Finley suggests moving anything valuable inside.

"Make sure things are out of sight, make sure your vehicles are locked if they have outside lights, leave those on," says Chief Finley.

The police currently have no suspects and believe the thieves will keep stealing until they are caught.

If you see or hear anything unusual call the South Zanesville Police Department right away at (740) 453-0626.