CPD reminds residents to lock cars following series of break-ins

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The Charleston Police Department cautioned residents to remember to lock their car doors following reported break-ins in the area.

“As summertime activities ramp up, The Charleston Police Department wants your summer to be a safe summer,” says the CPD press release. “CPD would like to remind citizens to lock their cars, remove firearms and valuables, and report suspicious activity.”

Officials say on April 18 around 1:30 a.m., officers responded to Barbados Way on James Island for reports of two juveniles possibly breaking into cars. Upon arrival, the possible suspects immediately fled on foot but one dropped a Glock handgun and was detained. The suspect was 17 years old and was charged with unlawful carrying of a handgun. They were placed into custody at the Department of Juvenile Justice.

On April 22 around 7 p.m., officials say another CPD officer was patrolling Nassau St. when they noticed an individual ducking down in the backseat of a pickup truck. Once the officer approached, they found the individual carrying multiple items that were removed from the vehicle. Following the on-scene investigation, CPD says officers identified that Samej Black, 33, of Charleston stole those items from the victim’s truck. Black was charged with breaking into a motor vehicle and is being held at Al Cannon Detention Center.

“These two recent incidents remind us that vehicles are not secure storage spaces for valuables, particularly firearms. They also illustrate the risks associated with leaving items in vehicles,” CPD added.