Thieves continue to plague honest residents in Henryetta and now they are expanding into the nearby rural areas.
In the past week, Henryetta police and sheriff's deputies have been told about no fewer than 20 incidents where automobiles have been broken into and contents taken.
Police chief Steve Norman said the latest rash of burglaries have been along Bryant and Creek Mine roads.
"These are probably young people because some of the vehicles are well off the roadway," Norman said. "Adults tend to stay away from those kind of break-ins because they are afraid of facing an armed homeowner."
The burglars have a similar pattern of rummaging through an automobile or truck and taking cash or personal belongings.
"We urge people to take all valuables in their homes, even if it is a dollar or so in change. Make sure their vehicle is locked up and, if possible, have the car alarm set," the chief said.
Most of those thefts are occurring late at night when the intruders know residents are sleeping.
"People need to be aware of their surroundings. If they hear or see something or some one, they need to call the police or sheriff's department immediately."