WATCH: Video gives new clue in car break-in string

When this Maricopa Meadows family caught a strange man rummaging through their car earlier this month and nothing was taken, it offered new clues about what a reported gang of thieves is after. 

Kelsey and Clayton Moss caught an apparent car thief on a home security camera opening their unlocked car at about 2 a.m. Feb. 3. 

Clayton Moss said he left a $50 scratch-off lottery ticket on the floor and tools in the backseat and the truck.  

“Nothing was taken,” he said. “They only were interested in the glove box and center console.” 

He said he believed they may have been searching for guns. 

Clayton Moss was one victim in a string of car break-ins that weekend, according to police reports and posts on the NextDoor app. Several homeowners reported people checking cars in Maricopa Meadows and Desert Passage. 

“Most car break-ins are crimes of opportunity, in which the vehicle is left unlocked, or items of value are left in clear view,” said Maricopa police spokesperson Monica Williams. 

MPD released a few tips to prevent car break-ins: 

Your shield of defense: Locking your car acts as a personal shield against potential theft. It’s an extra layer of protection that you control. 

Out of sight, out of mind: Valuables left visible can attract unwanted attention. By securing your belongings and locking your car, you’re not inviting crime to take a chance. 

Light it up: Park in well-lit places or use motion-activated lighting in your driveway. Light deters thieves and provides added security. 

Community power: Your proactive steps contribute immensely to the overall safety of our community. When everyone takes responsibility, we create a safer environment together. 

“We welcome and appreciate the community reporting any suspicious activity in their neighborhood to MPD, as we are then able to adjust patrols in areas as needed and keep Maricopa safe,” Williams said. 

The Moss family submitted video of the late-night event: