Construction equipment thefts on the rise in Oak Creek, police warn workers to keep watch

OAK CREEK -- Oak Creek Police Department is warning commercial and construction companies working in Oak Creek to beware of equipment theft.

Recently, Oak Creek police and much of Milwaukee County have seen an increase in theft of equipment left unattended at work sites. Authorities say make sure all your equipment is locked up when not in use, when leaving for lunch breaks, or working out of sight of your storage trailer.

Some of the items thieves have gotten away with are: leaf blowers, trimmers, chain and concrete saws, weed-eaters, electronic levels and portable generators.

Contractors need to watch for individuals dressed in construction vests portraying employees or other individuals driving past the work site perusing or casing out the work areas.

If you do not recognize someone at your work site, authorities say question their presence.

Police say a black Ford Taurus, vintage 2010-2014 and a black Ford F-150, vintage 2010-2014 have been linked to several of these thefts.

If you have information or have seen anything suspicious, you are asked to call authorities. The Oak Creek Police Department can be reached at 414-762-8200.