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Police in one southwest Georgia city say they’re seeing a spike in stolen cars.

Albany police say vehicle thefts are up 60 percent so far over the same period a year ago. That’s 159 vehicles reported stolen so far this year.

Officer Dillard Glover says the thefts are happening on a regular basis across the city. He says thieves often find spare keys and valuables inside unlocked cars. And while most stolen vehicles are recovered, the thefts place the owners under great stress and can result in higher insurance premiums.

WALB-TV reports police are urging residents to keep their vehicles locked and to always remove any valuable items. Albany police also offer a Citizens Police Academy to teach residents more ways to protect their property.

Topics Trends Auto Fraud Georgia Law Enforcement