NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) -- Smash-and-grab burglars who reportedly hit about a dozen cars at an apartment complex off Stewarts Ferry Pike in the Percy Priest area earlier this week are still on the loose. However, since News 2 covered the incident, a mobile security trailer has been placed on the premises.
The CEO of Solaren Risk Management, Jack Byrd, told News 2 he saw our story from Monday, Jan. 27, as well as overnight reports of the smash-and-grab incidents in Nashville, and decided to act by placing a mobile surveillance camera system at the complex, free of charge.
"How much is this out of your own pocket?" News 2's Andy Cordan asked.
"Typically somewhere between $3,500 and [$5,000] a month is what we would rent them out for," Byrd replied.
When asked why he was doing this, Byrd said he feels bad, he doesn't like what's going on, and he has "the ability and the means to try to change and impact it for the better."
Bethany Sims has lived at the apartment complex for six months. She's not only aware of the auto burglaries, but she's concerned about them.
"Since July, how many times has this place been broken into that you know of?" Cordan inquired.
"This is the fourth or fifth time it's been broken into for just the cars," Sims responded.
"Is that acceptable, ma'am?" Cordan questioned.
"No, no, and these are considered luxury apartments, so we don't feel very safe here at all," Sims stated.
When asked about the camera installation, Sims said she thinks it's a great idea, adding that residents would love to have some kind of surveillance.
News 2 requested information about calls for service over the last year from the apartment complex. Data shows the Metro Nashville Police Department has responded there 35 times for thefts.
News 2 also reached out to Metro Councilmember Jeff Gregg, who represents that area. He said vehicle break-ins have become a persistent issue in the community.
"We are taking a proactive approach, enhancing patrols, increasing community awareness, and encouraging residents to take preventative measures," Gregg stated.
