Residents frustrated by dozens of car break-ins over last week

Despite '#9PMRoutine,' thieves still targeting cars in local neighborhoods

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – More than 50 car break-ins have been reported in Jacksonville over the last seven days.

The neighborhoods with the most thefts were Arlington and Springfield, with thieves breaking into cars in those areas almost every day in the last week.

Recommended Videos



The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office has gone viral with its “#9PMRoutine” on social media, reminding people every night to lock up their cars.

Some people said the effort is working as people are reminded not to leave valuables in their vehicles, but even though some thieves might have fewer chances to steal, residents in Arlington and Springfield have still been victimized.

Springfield resident Mike Stich said he and his roommate have had their trucks broken into about four times.

“They are lifting door handles, and a Jeep was stolen down the block. It's quieted done for a few months, and then it's back,” Stich said. “They just walk up and down the street late at night. If the car door opens, they're in it.”

Stich's neighbor, Guy Barnhart, said he locks his car every night.

“Just kind of play it safe, play it smart,” Barnhart said.

According to crime-mapping data from JSO, there were 57 vehicle break-ins in Jacksonville in the last seven days. Of those, 10 were in Springfield and six in Arlington.

Stich said it’s a crime that at times can frustrate him and his neighbors, but he’s not moving any time soon.

“I recommend (living here) to my friends and all that. I like it. It’s a nice place to live,” Stich said.

It's unclear if any of the thieves have been arrested in the break-ins from this week.


About the Author:

Veteran journalist and Emmy Award winning anchor