The University of Minnesota and surrounding areas saw a surge in vehicle-related crimes over spring break.
Two vehicles were broken into near the Como Student Community Cooperative between March 16 and 17, according to University police reports. A car was reported stolen near the cooperative during the same time period.
There are no surveillance cameras in the area, so it’s unclear when exactly the incidents occurred, University Police Department Lt. Troy Buhta said.
Buhta said the Minneapolis Police Department put a bait car near the cooperative in response to the incidents. That car was stolen at about 3 a.m. on Saturday.
A suspect was arrested for stealing the bait car, Buhta said, and that person could be connected to the previous thefts.
A vehicle was stolen on Saturday and another was broken into on Thursday at the Oak Street Ramp, according to University police reports.
Though there are cameras near the ramp’s exit, their images do not usually help police find suspects, Buhta said.
Other crimes near campus
Crime: Theft from building
When: Wednesday between 8 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Where: Walter Library
Info: A student’s laptop was stolen when she briefly left the area to meet with a group.
Crime: Theft from building
When: Wednesday between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Where: Ridder Arena
Info: A duffel bag that belonged to a girl between 10 and 12 years old was stolen while unattended.
Crime: Other theft and trespassing
When: Friday between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Where: Freeman Aquatics Center
Info: Officers were informed about a possible theft from the aquatic center. Further investigation produced the suspect, who was cited for theft under $500.