SPRING PARK, Minn. -- There has been a rash of thefts from boats on Lake Minnetonka in the past week. The Hennepin County Sheriff's Department says at least 16 of them occurred from July 24-28.
"Personal electronics, CDs, alcohol, personal items that are left on board the boats," says Lt. Todd Turpitt.
The thefts took place mostly at marinas and private residences in Tonka Bay, Orono, Mound and Spring Park. Investigators can't say if they are all connected but they are interested in two people caught on tape at one of the marinas.
Security video shows two males approaching a boat, going on board and then running away after realizing someone was on the boat. Police are not saying they are the crooks but do want to find them.
"We're asking people that if you recognize who you see on the video, please call the sheriff's office, 911 or Crime Stoppers," Lt. Turpitt said.
Authorities offered the following tips to protect your property:
• Remove all electronics, alcohol, and valuable items from your boat
• Use Security lights
• Consider alarms that sound when entry is made
• Create a neighborhood watch to report suspicious activity
• Don't leave a boat engine key in ignition
• Secure hatches and lockers with strong padlocks
• Secure outboard motor so it can't be easily removed
• For trailers, use a wheel lock device or chain a trailer to another object
The Hennepin County sheriff's number is (763) 525-6216.
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