Home surveillance video from an east Nashville home has been reminding drivers to stay aware and lock their vehicle doors.
Barry Otto reviewed the security camera system at his house when his next door neighbor's belongings, including a GPS, were taken from her unlocked car.
The incident happened on Forrest Avenue near 18th Street after 7 a.m. on Friday.
The surveillance camera captured four young men walking down the street prior to the theft, which occurred outside the frame.
"You can see three guys on the other side of the street and one on the nearest sidewalk looking through the cars and trying door handles," Otto told NewsChannel 5.
Otto's wife said stolen property from vehicles has become common which was why residents have been urged to look out for each other, especially with Christmas around the corner.
"During the holidays is when you have packages delivered," Otto added. "You hear a lot of them getting lifted off of porches."
The surveillance cameras have become a security blanket for Otto and his wife who have recently upgraded their system.
"If you see something that's weird or out of the ordinary, at least pay attention," Otto said.
According to the 2015 Federal Bureau of Investigation Crime Statistics, motor vehicle thefts across the nation rose 3.1 percent compared to 2015.
In Nashville, there have also been problems with stolen vehicles. Recent statistics in October showed 77 percent of vehicles taken were because keys were left inside or made available to thieves.
Officials with the Metro Nashville Police Department have continued to strongly push their Park Smart! Program to urge citizens to lock their doors, secure any valuables, and remove keys.
