STURGIS, S.D. – The Meade County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a series of burglaries that have targeted unlocked vehicles in the Black Hawk area. Sheriff Pat West says this activity appears consistent with similar incidents occurring throughout the region.

In total, more than a dozen incidents were reported. Several vehicles were entered without items being taken; however, two firearms were taken from unsecured vehicles, and in other cases, keys had been left inside.

Law enforcement say these situations create opportunities that criminals are willing to exploit.

For the safety of our community, they strongly encourage everyone to lock their vehicles and to never leave firearms unsecured, especially in unlocked vehicles.

The sheriff’s office says they have collected video and evidence from multiple locations. If you have surveillance footage that shows individuals walking through neighborhoods or attempting to access vehicles, you are asked to contact the Meade County Sheriff’s office.