Camden — A crime often described as one of opportunity has increased in Camden. Since early July, four vehicles have been reported stolen, though police were able to recover them, said Detective Curt Andrick of Camden Police Department.

The first incident took place July 4, when a vehicle was taken from a Washington Street residence.

“The suspects drove [the vehicle] to Hope, and dropped it off on Route 105,” Andrick said.

The following week, two additional vehicles — also parked in driveways on Washington Street — were stolen and recovered in Hope off Route 105, according to police.

A fourth vehicle was taken from Chestnut Street, Andrick said, and later recovered in Camden. It is unclear if the thefts are connected or being carried out by more than one person, according to police.

While each of the vehicles was recovered successfully, Andrick said the crimes could have been prevented with a few precautions. Each of the stolen vehicles was reportedly unlocked and several also had keys in the ignition or elsewhere inside the vehicle, he said.

Andrick said police recommend locking unattended vehicles — during the day and at night — as well as reporting suspicious activity.

Investigation into the vehicle thefts is ongoing. Anyone with information about the crimes or wishing to report suspicious activity should contact Camden police by calling 236-3030.