FRANKLIN—A rash of thefts from citizens’ vehicles has become a concern for Franklin police.

Lt. Timothy Whitt said city has had about a half-dozen incidents in recent weeks.

&uot;There is no indication that the (incidents) are related,&uot; he said, &uot;because they have been so widespread.&uot;

He said the thefts, involving anything from dash-mounted Global Positioning System units and stereos to money and credit cards from purses, have happened in various places, including North High and Walnut streets.

&uot;I think they are crimes of opportunity, where someone walking by&uot; takes advantage of the situation.

In some instances, the vehicles were unlocked, and other times, windows were broken to gain access to the items. Some were parked on the street, others in driveways.

The Franklin Police Department provided the following tips to keep citizens’ property safe and help them avoid becoming victims of crime:

* Never leave a car unlocked. Make sure windows are up.

* Never keep valuable items in a car. Large amounts of cash, credit cards, checkbooks, navigation units, compact disc players and other items are best removed and secured in a house when not in use.

* If you find that your car has been entered and items are missing, call the Police Department immediately. Do not wait.

* If you observe suspicious people around your car or property, call the police.

If anyone has any information about the recent thefts, contact Franklin Crime Solvers at 562-8599. Information leading to an arrest could be worth a reward of up to $1,000.