2 teens charged in auto burglaries

Just days after local law enforcement warned of a bump in auto burglaries, two teenagers were charged with breaking into more than 40 vehicles in the East Brainerd area.

A news release from the Chattanooga Police Department said Trevor Sims, 18, and a 17-yearold were charged with burglary and theft. The release said a cellphone left in a victim’s vehicle and video evidence helped investigators identify the suspects.

Last week, the Times Free Press quoted Chattanooga police saying 89 vehicles had been reported stolen between Sept. 23 and Oct. 26. And Hamilton County Sheriff Jim Hammond called a news conference last week to call attention to a rash of vehicle burglaries.

The police news release said the department’s auto burglary unit investigated several thefts in the Gunbarrel/Shallowford Road area on Oct. 28.

Investigators found the cellphone in a victim’s vehicle, and a local resident had videotape of the thieves breaking into his car. Police believe the pair stole 40 cellphones, five firearms, ammunition and other items of value, some from cars left unlocked.

Burglary victims inquiring about stolen property are asked to call the police department at 423-643-5000 and request the Property Crimes Unit. If calling about a stolen cellphone, please provide a serial or IMEI number.