Pineville Police Chief Bill Matthews updated the Pineville City Council on recent car break-ins that occurred over the past week. Matthews reported five cars were broke into about a week ago in Pineville. Items stolen included a purse, a duffel bag, a laptop and an iPad.

In an attempt to decrease the amount a break-ins, Matthews has increased manpower on the c-shift. There will be three people patrolling on that shift now.

Matthews stated three people were arrested in Harlan in connection with thefts in Middlesboro. He stated officers from the Bell County Sheriff’s Department and Middlesboro Police Department went to Harlan to check out the situation.

Matthews reported none of the items found belonged to people in Pineville. He said there are still plans to meet with the alleged culprits to see if there is any connection with the thefts in Pineville.

“This is an ongoing crime everywhere,” said Matthews. “It’s the newest trend for people.”

Matthews stated everyone needs to be aware of the growing crime involving car break-ins. He said people need to take items out of their cars when they exit their vehicles.

Flood wall inspections were also mentioned during the council meeting. Pineville Mayor Sherwin Rader stated a date has not been scheduled for the Corps of Engineers to inspect the flood walls, but they will be in town on Feb. 19, 20 or 21.

The council also approved the minutes from the previous meeting.