Two arrested in local car break-ins

Oakwood has OAKWOOD — seen a rash of car break-ins in the city over the past two months, and police recently apprehended two suspects officers believe are involved in some of the thefts.

Police Chief Alan Hill with the Oakwood Public Safety Department said that two arrests have been made. According to Hill, Brian Allen and Amy Combs were caught recently with stolen items in their possession.

“Allen was arrested shortly after 1:30 a.m. on Sept. 12 near West Thruston and Rubicon,” Hill said. “In Allen’s possession at that time of contact was numerous pieces of property, which were later learned to be stolen in vehicle thefts that occurred earlier in the morning within the city. The property was returned to the rightful owners.”

Combs was arrested nearly a month later at 4:30 a.m. on Oct. 8, when police say they caught up with her in an alley in the 400 block of Irving Avenue.

Oakwood officers responding to the scene say neighbors caught her allegedly trying to steal from a resident’s car in their neighborhood. Police received assistance from the University of Dayton police department and were able to arrest Combs.

“She confessed to stealing property from vehicles in Oakwood and was found to have stolen items in her possession,” Hill said.

He said a subsequent search revealed numerous stolen items in her possession. She was charged with four counts of vehicle trespass, one count of receiving stolen property and one count of theft.

Hill said the investigation into whether Allen was involved with other thefts is ongoing.

Police said the city had more than 10 recent similar cases and are telling residents that preventative measures and staying alert can help prevent thefts from vehicles.

“If you must leave valuables in your vehicle, lock them in the trunk or hide them. Do not leave it in plain view,” Hill said. “Keep your car clean and clear of clutter to show that nothing of value exists to steal. Remove bags, especially gym bags, computer carrying cases, work briefcases, etc., even if they are empty, this could tempt a thief to target your vehicle. When in public places, park in well-lit areas. Sounds simple, but lock your car.”

Another tip from police involves making sure what is valuable to you doesn’t stay in your car.

“Don’t leave valuables in the car — can’t emphasize this enough,” Hill said. Contact this reporter at 937225-0586 or email Wayne. Baker@coxinc.com.