A spike in car break-ins has authorities in Greenville on alert especially since the suspects are targeting local church parking lots.

Greenville police say in the last month they've responded to several car break-ins at churches, including Hooker Memorial and Memorial Baptist Church.

Police say the majority of the cars have been locked and the crooks are breaking the windows to get in.

Victims like Alicia Shearin say she hopes churches can increase parking lot security. Shearin says, "When they come to a church to worship, it's like being at home with your family and you honestly don't think about people trying to steal from you, because it's a sense of being in your own yard."

Police also ask residents to remove all valuables from your car and to call authorities if you see any suspicious activity.