Neptune City police say there has been a sudden increase in car break-ins, making residents think twice about leaving their cars unlocked.

Resident Dennis Curry said his neighbor?s car was broken into, and his cellular phone and other items were stolen. Curry said the neighbor left his car unlocked at night.

Another resident says people are not as careful as they should be when leaving their cars unattended. ?I think they're a little lax about it, but with the summer months coming they'll be a lot more people in town so hopefully they'll be more cautious,? Patty Popp said.

It is unclear whether an organized crime ring is to blame or if the break-ins are unrelated.