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Smash-and-grab thieves target South Shore YMCA

HANOVER, Mass. — A group of women may be behind the latest incident of smash-and-grabs in Hanover.

Surveillance video from Dec. 7 shows thieves at the Foxborough YMCA using a flashlight to find something valuable in a car, then they smash, grab and take off. It happened again at the YMCA in Hanover Thursday morning.

"People think they're safe anywhere... even the YMCA and they are not as safe as they think they are," said Hanover YMCA member Paul Muller.

Hanover police posted about the crime on Facebook:

“Today multiple vehicles were broken into at the YMCA in Hanover. Windows were smashed & items were taken from the MV’s. Please remember to hide, remove or secure valuables before leaving your vehicle.” 

There is no surveillance video or witnesses from the Hanover incident, but thieves left a similar calling card; broken glass littering the parking lot.

It happened between 9 and 11:30 a.m., which is the busiest time in Hanover.

“There are so many people and it’s so active that it’s surprising they could do it without getting caught," said YMCA member Brenda Regan.

RELATED: Pair charged in series of smash-and-grab burglaries across Mass.

Sources tell Boston 25 News the Felony Lane Gang, behind several similar smash-and-grabs at gyms may be behind this latest incident.

"You know you come here and expect your car to be fine. It's unfortunate that it happens," said YMCA member Colin Regan.

The South Shore YMCA released a statement:

“This morning we had 4 cars broken into the YMCA in the parking lot.  We contacted the Hanover Police Department as soon as it was reported.  We have increased our presence through our parking lot as a result of the break-ins," said South Shore YMCA Executive Director Daniel Berry.

In the meantime, members should plan to heed the advice from police and never leave valuables in the car.

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