Don't be a victim, lock your car doors

More than 20 vehicles were burglarized in Manatee on Tuesday, and each incident had something significant in common: the doors were unlocked. 

"Thieves, for the most part, are lazy and are looking for easy targets," a media release from the sheriff's office said. "Don't make it any easier for them."  

When electronics, cell phones, money and other personal items are left in plain view, they become easy targets for burglars. Combine a luring item with an unlocked door and you're almost inviting them to steal. 

The sheriff's office recommends that residents  remove all valuables from vehicles over night, including garage door openers because that allows a would-be theft access into the home. And, yes, the most obvious: lock your doors. 

It's one of the easiest ways to prevent yourself from becoming a victim.