The Roanoke Rapids Police Department is investigating the theft of GPS units from cars in the Chaloner Drive area Christmas evening.

One of the units was apparently dropped in another victim’s driveway and was returned to its owner. A winter coat left in a car was also stolen, according to Captain Andy Jackson.

Three thefts occurred in the 1400 block of Chaloner Driver and one occurred on Sunset Drive.

It is known at least one vehicle was left unlocked.

Items which have some value left visible in vehicles are easy targets by thieves, Jackson said. Electronics, such as GPS units, are particularly hot. “They can be traded easily for narcotics. If you program in your personal information, they’ve got that, too.”

Anyone with information on the crimes is encouraged to call Crimestoppers at 252-583-4444.