Dunwoody residents are advised to keep an eye on their car tires.
A recent post on the Dunwoody Police Department's Facebook page warned residents of an increase in stolen vehicle tires.
“Recently, wheel/tire thefts have been on the rise, mostly in the apartment complexes,” the post read.
Many of the affected apartment complexes are in gated communities, according to the post, which offered tips on how to lower the risk of being victimized.
“Once you pull in, ensure the gate and/or arm has lowered or closed behind you before proceeding,” the post read.
According to Officer Mark Stevens, a spokesman for the Dunwoody Police Department, it is not a commonly reported incident.
"We happened to have two nights — within a week time frame — where four sets of wheels were stolen," Stevens said in an email. "Since that is atypical, it got our attention."
Atlanta has had a widespread problem with tire and wheel thefts. In May, Channel 2 Action News reported there had been more than 111 wheel thefts in the metro area thus far in 2016.
Stevens notes that stock wheels – the factory-model wheels for the vehicle – are not being targeted. The wheels being stolen are custom or luxury wheels, also known as aftermarket.
“If aftermarket wheels are purchased,” Stevens said, “I would recommend locking wheel lug nuts, as this makes removing the wheels much more difficult and time-consuming.”
Any information about tire or wheel thefts in the area can be directed to the Dunwoody Police Department.
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