Fulton sees multiple storage unit thefts

The Fulton Police Department is investigating multiple storage unit burglaries in the area, according to a media release issued Wednesday.

Fulton Detective Brandi Mintle said there’s been 20 to 30 storage unit break-ins since August, and she said the department has found several locks and stolen items.

“It’s been multiple facilities that have been hit,” Mintle said.

The department still has no leads on a suspect, according to Mintle. However, he said the community can help by checking on their units.

ABC 17 checked in with Boone County’s Detective Tom O’Sullivan to find out if Boone County is having the same issue. While Fulton has been seeing an uptick in such thefts, Boone County Sheriff’s Detective Tom O’Sullivan said the same cannot be said for Boone County. He said there are certain storage units that deter this type of crime.

“They tend to be better secured, they have video surveillance, some of them have 24-hour staffing,” O’Sullivan said.

According to Consumer Digest, those with storage units can protect themselves by watching out for poorly-lit outdoor facilities and looking for lower crime areas and newer buildings.

Michelle Gleba, regional director of the Better Business Bureau, said when looking for a place to store items, make sure the selected storage unit is on the BBB website.

“You’re going to be able to see if they are a BBB accredited business, which means they have agreed to meet our standards of trust,” Gleba said.

She said the BBB website also offers other customers’ experience and a grading system.

ABC 17 News checked in with an insurance agent as well, and they recommend buying storage insurance if the user does not have renter’s insurance. However, if you do have renter’s insurance, make sure storage facilities are covered.