Thirty car batteries stolen in less than six weeks

Police: One man in custody

Updated: Thursday, 11 Jul 2013, 6:50 PM EDT
Published : Thursday, 11 Jul 2013, 6:15 PM EDT

DAYTON, Ohio (WDTN) - Thieves are targeting car batteries in Dayton.  Thirty have been stolen from cars in less than six weeks throughout a one mile stretch on north Main street, between Hillcrest and Delaware avenues. 

Police have arrested one person they believe is connected to the rash of thefts, thanks to one Dayton resident.

Polo Dewberry contacted police when he found 40-year-old Michael Fox in his garage July 7.  Police said Fox was armed with tools used to install and remove car batteries.  He was arrested and facing charges of breaking and entering and possession of criminal tools.

Dayton police Lieutenant Wendy Stiver said thieves will resell your battery or scrap it for metal to make a profit of approximately $30. This is much less than what it will cost you to replace it, said Stiver.

Stiver said its very important to record your battery's serial number.  Register this number with your manufacturer and vendor.  This will help police track your battery should it be stolen.  If you buy a new battery, ask the business how to properly register your battery. 

To avoid falling victim always make sure your doors are locked. A car alarm will also deter thieves, as well as light.

"If you park your car in a garage, make sure its secured and the area is well lit.  Motion sensor lights are a great investment.  If you park your car on the street or the driveway, motion sensors and lights are also good options," said Stiver.