FROM STAFF REPORTS

The Helena Police Department is investigating a large number of thefts from vehicles in the Falliston, Jackson Square and Old Cahaba subdivisions, and is looking for residents to claim stolen items.

Helena police recently arrested 22-year-old Bryce Jamarr O’Neal of Gardendale and charged him with two counts of unlawful breaking and entering a vehicle and one count of fraudulent use of a credit card. He is being held in the Shelby County Jail on bonds totaling $15,000.

Police also arrested 19-year-old William Reid McDonald and charged him with three counts of unlawful breaking and entering a vehicle. He is being held in the Shelby County Jail on a $15,000 bond.

Helena police Deputy Chief Tim Carter said the arrests are related to the subdivision thefts, but said the department has only identified a small number of victims.

“We also have a large number of unclaimed items which were in the possession of the suspects,” Carter wrote in a press release. “Anyone who believes they have had items stolen from their vehicle, please report it. If those items are among the ones we have recovered, they will be returned to the victim.”

The department is also asking Helena residents to keep their vehicles locked. “Most thieves are looking for an easy mark. As far as we know, these suspects did not force entry in to any vehicles,” Carter wrote. “All of the items were taken from vehicles that were unlocked. By simply locking your vehicle you are much less likely to be a victim.”