Investigators from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Wilshire Division are warning motorists to take precautions after a significant increase in auto thefts and auto burglaries occurred from Feb. 8 through Feb. 14.

Det. Wes Lin, with the Wilshire Division’s Auto Theft Unit, said he could not provide specific numbers, but said the thefts were reported throughout the division.

“They just flared up,” Lin said. “As much as we can, we want to get the community involved so we can prevent these incidents from happening.”

Lin said police have also experienced a recent increase in thefts of catalytic converters from vehicles, with numerous incidents involving Honda Elements and Toyota Camrys. The recent thefts have primarily occurred between midnight and 6 a.m. in an area with the boundaries of Fairfax Avenue to the west, San Vicente Boulevard to the south, Redondo Avenue to the east, and Wilshire Boulevard to the north. While most of the thefts have occurred in that area, Lin said “small pockets” of incidents have occurred throughout the division, and people should be aware and take preventative measures to protect themselves from becoming victims.

“If you see someone doing something suspicious around a car, by all means, call the police,” Lin said. “Especially if it is someone who doesn’t belong on the property.”

The detective said a cluster of auto thefts have occurred in the 400 block of South Detroit Street. Some of the apartment buildings in that area have stacked parking, and residents leave their keys inside vehicles so they can be moved.

“We’ve had a couple buildings where multiple cars were stolen,” Lin added. “If you don’t have to leave the key, don’t. And if you do, at least keep it out of sight.”

Regarding catalytic converters, Lin said police are uncertain about how the thieves have been removing the devices from underneath some of the vehicles. He surmised that the suspects potentially used a lift or jack during some of the thefts.

Thieves generally steal catalytic converters to recycle them for the scrap value of precious metals contained inside. Lin said motorists can purchase locking devices for $100 to $300. He cautioned people to park in a garage if possible, or in well-lit areas.

Anyone with information about the burglaries is urged to call Wilshire Division auto theft detectives at (213)922-8247.