by: WOODTV.com staff
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Detectives with the Grand Rapids Police Department say some of the more than 50 vehicles stolen from auto dealerships this year have later been used in drive-by shootings.
A Wednesday update from GRPD said the same group of about 20 juveniles and several young adults have been responsible for about 60 burglaries at dealerships, auto repair shops and cellphone stores since the start of June.
Police said most of the crimes have happened along 28th Street and Leonard Street between 1 a.m. and 5 p.m. Investigators say members of the group steal the cars, then use them in smash-and-grabs.
GRPD Sgt. James Wojczynski said in a statement released by the department, “We have reason to believe, based on our investigations, that these stolen vehicles are also being used in other more serious crimes, including drive-by shootings,”
In his statement, Sgt. Wojczynski said the burglars are “brazen” and “should be considered dangerous,” also referencing a deadly May crash involving one of the stolen cars.