DES MOINES, Iowa [KCCI] — Authorities in Des Moines are alerting residents to a significant increase in gun thefts from vehicles, with reports already at around 50 cases halfway through the year. Typically, the police see around 150 stolen gun reports each year, with about a third of these incidents involving thefts from cars and trucks.

Des Moines police are urging gun owners not to leave firearms in their cars. Police Sgt. Paul Parizek underscored the importance of preventing guns from falling into the hands of inexperienced individuals, particularly children, who may not comprehend the consequences of their actions.

While gun owners might not face legal trouble, having a firearm stolen and used in a crime can cause significant headaches.