Minors arrested in string of Columbia vehicle break-ins

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Officers arrested three minors in connection with a string of vehicle break-ins that occurred early Wednesday, the Columbia Police Department said in a news release.

The minors are suspected in more than 13 vehicle break-ins on Monterey Drive and Sieville Avenue, the CPD release states.

The suspects ran from police, who caught one of them in the 3500 block of Sierra Madre. Officers reportedly found a gun in a bush near where the juvenile was hiding.

Two other minors were arrested after a search warrant was served Friday in the 2900 block of Lynwood Drive, where more stolen items were recovered, according to the release.

All three were arrested on suspicion of second-degree burglary, felony stealing, misdemeanor stealing and resisting arrest.

When ABC 17 News visited the neighborhood Friday, many homes were equipped with security cameras.

Despite the recent vehicle break-ins, neighbors said they still feel safe. They said the cameras provide an extra sense of security and allow them to monitor their homes from anywhere.

"It's some security that we can see when someone's at the door, and we can see it on our phones too," Columbia resident Jerry Wassman said.

Phil Steinhaus has lived in the neighborhood since the 1980s and installed several Blink security cameras around his home a few years ago. While he doesn't believe his neighborhood is a common target for thieves, he said the cameras offer added peace of mind.

"This is a nice safe neighborhood. There's not a lot of rich people here. So there's no reason to break into my house because I really don't have any money," Steinhaus said.

Columbia Crime Stoppers announced Friday the organization will be increasing its reward for anonymous tips.

The organization announced tipsters can now receive up to $500 for information that leads to a felony arrest or the recovery of an illegal firearm.