Deputies in Brooke County are urging residents to keep their vehicles locked and report break-ins to help curb a rash of crimes in one neighborhood.

People who live in the area of Hukill Run and Apple Pie Ridge roads contacted NEWS9 about an increasing amount of vehicle break-ins, but deputies said they only have received a handful of reports, meaning that some residents aren't reporting the crimes.

Despite residents telling NEWS9 they are uneasy and angry about the break-ins, Brooke County Deputy Chief Chuck Jackson said police have only received about six reports in the past year.

"Anytime that they are the victim of a minor crime, any time that they thing someone has been in their vehicle, entered their vehicle, even if they've not taken anything, call us," Jackson said.

By doing so, victims give police the opportunity to review each case and pinpoint where the problem is to help track down the person or people responsible. But police said they can't do that unless each case is reported.

Police and residents said in most of these cases the cars, campers or outdoor buildings are unlocked, making these "crimes of opportunity." Police said the bottom line is residents need to lock up their property and call them if they see anything suspicious.

One person who lives on Apple Pie Ridge Road told NEWS9 that a stranger entered a camper on their property. Nothing was stolen, but the caller knew something was wrong because the intruder left the lights on.

Other residents said someone entered unlocked cars in the neighborhood and have sometimes stolen items. They said similar incidents have happened to at least a handful of people in that area.

Some residents said they have a theory on who might be responsible.

John Davis, of Hukill Run Road, said, "I'd like to see them get caught. I mean, the police ought to take into consideration who's doing it. It's people from out of town that's coming up on the hill."

Anyone who is the victim of a break-in or sees any suspicious activity is asked to immediately report it to police so officials can investigate.