The Demopolis Police Department responded to a dozen car break-ins by 9:30 Monday morning, all within the city limits.

DPD Chief Tommie Reese said all the vehicles were unlocked. He said the last rash of vehicle break-ins like this happened in 2011 and reminds citizens to keep car doors locked.

“Lock your vehicle doors whether at home, parked on the streets or in a shopping center,” he said. “Most of the time, the best theft deterrent is just locking the door. If a criminal has to break the glass, chances are they will make noise and attract attention.”

He added criminals look for easy prey, and when the find an unlocked vehicle, it doesn’t get much easier.

Reese said the break-ins occurred on the west side of town on Maria Avenue, Ashwood Street, Powe Road, Gaston Lane, Hackberry Lane and Marengo Drive.

“The person didn’t force themselves into the vehicles since they weren’t locked, so there’s not much to go on as far as evidence, but we’re continuing to investigate,” Reese said. “The suspect most likely checked more vehicles than were broken into, but moved on when finding locked vehicles.”

He asked that citizens report any suspicious activity to DPD by calling (334) 289-3073.

DPD also offers the following tips to keep your vehicle safe:

•Lock your doors

•Never leave valuables in your vehicle

•Get an alarm system