Thieves target landscapers

Thieves in Fairfax County are targeting something new: leaf blowers and other landscaping equipment.

Police are investigating a rash of landscaping equipment thefts that have occurred throughout the Franconia area from businesses and directly from the landscaping trucks that park in the neighborhoods in which they work.

Since February, police say there have been about 75 incidents of the theft of various items including backpack blowers, chain saws, trimmers, generators, miter saws, floor buffers, air compressors and floor sanders. The total value of stolen items is estimated around $500,000. In one heist, the suspects took more than 30 items valued between $20,000 to $30,000.

Detectives believe at least one group is responsible for the thefts and may be using some type of pickup or box truck to move the stolen equipment. Police have installed surveillance cameras and increased surveillance and patrols. They encourage business owners, employees and drivers of work vans to be vigilant in areas where their vehicles or equipment are left unattended.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS/8477, e-mail at www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text “TIP187” plus your message to CRIMES/274637 or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.