Columbia Car Break-In Suspects Caught

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By Eric White

COLUMBIA, Tenn. - Columbia police have arrested four men who are suspected of a rash of car break-ins. In every case, investigators said the victims left their car doors unlocked.

Michael Collier, Mitchell Collier, Randale Harris and Jorge Lara were each charged with one count in the case, but more charges are likely.

Police suspect the men stole items such as GPS devices, credit cards and money from more than 100 cars. Many of the thefts occurred on Hilltop Drive, Woods Drive and Bigby Drive.

"I'm going to start locking my doors," said neighbor Maria Bates.

Neighbor Brenda Hallmark said she also plans on making a conscious effort to lock her car doors.

"This is a good neighborhood, didn't think things like that happened here," said Hallmark.

Investigators said they were able to link the suspects to the car break-ins after one of the men tried to use a stolen credit card at a local Wal-Mart.

Columbia police said residents also need to keep valuables out of sight to deter would-be crooks.

email: ewhite@newschannel5.com