With the warm weather the Lima Police Department says crime usually increases but this summer it seems that break-ins are up dramatically.
Police detectives say they have seen an increase of residential breaking and entering where the perpetrator knocks on the front door and when no one answers they move to the rear of the home to gain entry.
Items that have been stolen range from small electronics to jewelry, cash and even firearms.
The amount stolen depends on the amount of time in the residence.
Officials are asking area residents for help to curb this growing problem.
Police say that if you do answer the door and you don't know the person keep the door closed and report it to the police because that person could be a potential criminal looking for a house to break-in to.
