Firearms, purses and laptop computers are being stolen from vehicles at recreational areas and homes throughout Rutherford County, sheriff's detectives said.

Burglars broke into several vehicles parked the last weekend of August at Fate Sanders Marina, Stewarts Creek Boat Ramp and Long Hunter State Parks. Items stolen included handguns and rifles.

Also, auto burglars stole property from vehicles parked outside homes in different areas of the county. Items were stolen from vehicles parked at Royal Glenn subdivision off state Route 96 (Franklin Highway), Birdsong Avenue off Sulphur Springs Road, Choir Court off Powell's Chapel Road, Uriah Place off West Jefferson Pike and Orchard Park Drive off state Route 99 (New Salem Highway).

Sheriff Robert Arnold asked residents to protect property from burglars.

"Keep your vehicles locked to help deter burglars," Sheriff Arnold said. "And don't leave valuables in plain sight in vehicles. Lock property in the trunk or store the property inside your home for safekeeping."

People who have information about the suspects are asked to call the Criminal Investigations Division at 615-898-7916.