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Annapolis Sees Spike In Thefts From Vehicles

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Annapolis police say they've seen a 60 percent spike in thefts from vehicles during the first four months of 2013.

The Capital of Annapolis reports there have been 102 thefts this year, up from 64 during the same period in 2012.

Police say in 82 percent of the thefts, the vehicle was either unlocked or showed no signs of forced entry.

In response, police have launched a new initiative to alert owners that their cars are easy targets for theft. Much like potential thieves, police officers are walking down streets and pulling on door handles to see if they'll open.

They're also noting valuable items left in plain sight. Owners of those vehicles are being advised to lock the doors and remove their property.

(Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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