MT. VERNON, IL — The Mt. Vernon Police Department has recently reported an increased number of vehicle thefts in the area. Chief Trent Page says this could have a lot to do with residents simply not locking their vehicles or leaving valuables in plain view for criminals to quickly access.

Page says most criminals want the easiest target that requires the least amount of work.

The Jefferson County Crime Stoppers is always taking tips at 242-TIPS, that’s 242-8477.

You can listen to the full interview with MVPD Chief Trent Page during this Sunday’s edition of the Southern Illinois Insider on WMIX AM940/94.1FM & 96.5FM starting at 11am.