The value of items stolen from vehicles in Carver County so far in 2009 already exceeds previous years, prompting the Carver County Sheriff's Office to issue a warning.

"There is no sure way of protecting yourself from becoming a victim, but you can protect your valuables. Take time to (1) remove all valuables from your vehicles, (2) secure windows and doors; and (3) If parked in the garage, make sure garage doors are down and secured (even then, do not leave valuables in your vehicles.)"

The dollor amount of stolen property so far is $156,524. Last year it was $139,668; in 2007 it was $85,538.

Items that have been taken include laptops, iPods, stereos, speakers, faceplates, GPS units, CDs, wallets, purses, cash/change, clothing/sporting equipment, textbooks/calculators/backpacks.

Information relating to any crimes can be reported to the Carver County Sheriff's Office at 9-1-1 or (952) 361-1212.