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Update: Tuesday Dec. 20th 7:30pm

There were a total of nine burglaries in Cole County from Mid-November until today. Three were in the Wardsville area.

Detectives think they know the two people responsible for all of the crimes, but have not made any arrests.

Sheriff Greg White says the key to preventing these holiday-time burglaries is simple.

"The fact is some things have changed. We know we've got some drug issues. We know there are people supporting drug habits. People are going to tend to look for the easy pickings; unlocked doors are easy pickings. Whether it's your car or your home, lock your doors," reminds White. "If you're out Christmas shopping and you're buying presents and you're putting them in your car, cover them up. Put them in the trunk. Make it so they're not readily visible."

One victim had Christmas presents stolen, and in other cases the thieves took items such as electronics, jewelry, and weapons.

Anyone with information should call the Cole County Sheriff's Office at 573-634-9160.

Original story:

The Cole County Sheriff's Department is investigating a rash of home burglaries in the Wardsville area.

Cole County Sheriff Greg White said his department has received nine reports of home burglaries from Mid-November to this point. He said that compares to 6 home burglaries in the same time period last year.

Sheriff White said they have a team investigating the burglaries. Detectives think they know the two people who are responsible for all nine burglaries. The investigation continues. No arrests have been made.

Viewers said items like electronics and jewelry were stolen; and more recently, Christmas presents.

Sheriff White said residents need to make sure they lock the doors to their homes and cars. He said you should keep valuables out of sight. When you're shopping, put shopping bags in the trunk if you're leaving your car outside for others to see.

If you have any information about these burglaries, you're asked to call the Cole County Sheriff's Department.