NORTH LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Detectives are warning residents to lock their vehicles after a string of overnight burglaries targeting unsecured cars in North Lauderdale, where they say thieves have stolen everything from cash and sneakers to guns.
According to the Broward Sheriff’s Office, at least three suspects were arrested Thursday after the burglaries were reported, but investigators believe additional suspects remain involved as multiple groups continued searching for unlocked vehicles overnight.
Authorities said the burglaries have primarily targeted apartment complex parking lots and residential driveways between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m.
They said most of the vehicles showed little or no signs of forced entry because they were left unlocked. However, investigators said windows have been smashed when valuables were visible inside.
Detectives said the thieves have stolen wallets, purses, cash, sneakers, perfume, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers and other valuables from vehicles.
They said one of the biggest concerns is the number of guns being stolen from vehicle consoles, glove compartments and trunks.
BSO identified two of the arrested suspects as 19-year-old Jason McDowell and 18-year-old Shamar McDowell.
Jail records show Jason McDowell faces charges of loitering or prowling, tampering with or fabricating physical evidence, and resisting an officer without violence. Records show Shamar McDowell faces one count each of loitering or prowling and resisting an officer without violence.
Deputies said the third suspect is a minor. His or her identity, age and charges were not immediately released.
As of Friday afternoon, Jason McDowell Broward County Main Jail, where his bond has not yet been set, while Shamar McDowell was being held at the same jail on a $650 bond.
Detectives are urging residents and visitors to help prevent vehicle burglaries by locking their vehicles, using steering wheel locks, parking in well-lit areas, removing all personal belongings from their cars and installing or activating alarm systems.
Anyone with information about the remaining suspects is urged to contact BSO North Lauderdale District Sgt. Lisa Sokol at 954-720-2261 or Detective Jaret Mundth at 954-720-2265, or submit a tip through the SaferWatch app. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Broward Crime Stoppers by calling 954-493-8477 or dialing **TIPS from any cellphone.
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