CAUGHT: Teens arrested for auto theft, connected to 25 other incidents



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Just the tip of the iceberg! Three teens are arrested after police say they drove right by officer in a stolen vehicle. Police say they've linked the teens to dozens of stolen cars.

At a Milwaukee Police briefing just like this, Thursday, June 19th, police spotted a stolen mini-van driving by.

The van was eventually stopped at 40th and Garfield.

"Four suspects fled from that vehicle," said Milwaukee Police.

Three teens were taken into custody -- investigators linked them to 25 other auto thefts since February.

"It was a great arrest by our officers," said

Police say the thefts only make up a small portion of those happening across the city. They've gone up 66%.

"We've seen a substantial increase in auto thefts compared to the same period last year," said Milwaukee Police.

Police say the crimes are mostly being committed by teens, targeting unlocked cars or those left running.

"They are very prolific and at times that can be extremely violent," said Milwaukee Police.

Police continue to crack down on thefts, and warn drivers to be careful.