Jul 14, 2008 7:28 pm US/Mountain
Trailheads Are Hot Spots For Thieves In Summit Co.
FRISCO, Colo. (CBS4) ―
Police in Summit County say someone is preying on hikers.
As many as 20 cars have been broken into and items were taken. They were parked at three trailheads near Frisco. They're off the Officer's Gulch and Frisco exits.
Police said the thieves are after anything in plain view that's valuable from iPods to purses. Many of the cars have been unlocked, but the thieves have also smashed car windows.
"Unbelievable, probably about 50 percent of the cars that are parked at trailheads are still unlocked," said Derek Woodman, Summit County Undersheriff.
Most of the victims have been tourists.
"That's very frustrating because we are out here on vacation and wanting to enjoy ourselves and it's one more thing that you have to add to your list of concerns," said a woman visiting from Minnesota.
Officers have tried to do some surveillance, but have yet to catch anyone in the act.
The two most popular spots the thieves target are the Ten Mile Creek trailhead and Officer's Gulch.
"(They) take whatever is visible; things of value," Woodman said.
Police recommend people leave expensive items at home, hiding items in the trunk and making sure doors are locked.
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