Crime trend on Milwaukee's south side: metal thefts

MILWAUKEE -- There's a growing crime trend on Milwaukee's south side -- metal thefts. Thieves are stealing just about anything that's on or outside your home.

Police say the items thieves are zeroing in on may not have a high price tag, but in bulk, the value adds up for the criminals.

Lieutenant Clinton Harrison from the Milwaukee Police Department says the criminals are stealing from front and backyards alike. He says there's no set pattern, but there are a few things you can watch for. "If citizens see somebody out there with a pickup truck collecting metal like that they should be taking note of it, taking note of the license plate," Lt. Harrison said.

Milwaukee police say even if you see a truck with a permit, but the people in the truck are acting suspiciously, you should take down the license plate of the vehicle and call police.