The White Hills section of Shelton is experiencing a rash of auto thefts and auto burglaries, Detective Sgt. Kevin Ahern said.
During the past three days, four cars have been stolen and there have been about 15 auto break-ins, Ahern said.
Police recovered two stolen vehicles in Derby. A third car was recovered by Shelton police as the suspects tried to take another vehicle. They fled and have managed to elude capture.
Police believe the same group is responsible for all the thefts.
Ahern said the thieves entered unlocked cars to steal GPS units, laptops, purses, cell phones, loose change — even a pair of boots. The four stolen cars were easy targets because the keys were left inside the car, Ahern said.
He urged residents not to leave anything in their vehicles and to lock their doors. In addition, Ahern suggested residents leave outside lights on overnight.
The thefts happened between midnight and 6 a.m.
Roads targeted include Rugby, Longfellow and Webster Drive.
Similar incidents have been reported recently in Derby and Seymour.
Ansonia experienced a rash of car burglaries over the summer. Police there charged a resident in connection to some of the Ansonia thefts — and the suspect may be responsible for up to 80 similar crimes in New Haven.