Police in Cheshire are reporting an increase of so-called "smash and grab" thefts from automobiles (similar to the one shown above) over the past several weeks.

Cheshire Police Lt. James Fasano said Thursday that the break-ins are occurring mornings between 9 a.m. and noon, typically at fitness centers around town and in the parking areas along the Linear Trail Park.

 The suspects watch to see if occupants of the vehicles place valuable items under their seats, wait for them to leave the area and then smash the windows, Fasano said. Items that are typically taken from the cars include pocketbooks and electronic devices, he said.

Fasano said residents are urged not to leave any valuables in their cars. Anyone seeing any suspicious activity in parking lots around town should call the Cheshire Police at 203-271-5500.