MARTIN COUNTY, Fla. — A costly crime is putting neighbors on edge in the townhome section of Martin's Crossings.
The Martin County Sheriff’s Office said a team of thieves hit the community around 2:30 a.m. Tuesday, jacking up cars, loosening the lug nuts, then stealing the rims and tires off at least four vehicles, leaving them sitting on blocks.
"I was not expecting the car literally on the ground," said Andres Tovar, a victim. "I just would never expect that happening here in Martin County, especially in this neighborhood."
Abygail Stiekman lives in Tallahassee and was left stranded.
"It’s definitely a setback," said Stiekman. "It’s very frustrating having to deal with this. I wasn’t expecting it."
The Sheriff’s Office says there is a high demand for the tires and rims on the street, and the job only takes crooks about four minutes to pull off.
"This is actually occurring all over the state," said Sgt. Josh Kloster. "We're working with some of the neighboring agencies right now."
Deputies are increasing patrols in the neighborhood, and Tovar is frustrated he’s now out thousands of dollars.
"I just hope they get them, man. I mean, I don’t know if I’ll get the wheels back, but now it’s just the principle," said Tovar.
The Sheriff's Office is asking anyone with surveillance cameras to review the video. If the cameras recorded anything suspicious, residents are asked to call the Sheriff's Office at 772-260-7060.
CAR TROUBLE: Rims and tires were stolen off multiple cars this morning in Martin County. At least four cars were hit in the Martin Crossings Community, leaving the victims stranded. @MartinFLSheriff has been patrolling the area. @WPTV pic.twitter.com/QVidqKgAsB
— Ryan Hughes (@HughesWPTV) March 19, 2019