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Richland County authorities say there's a car crook on the loose.

The thief has been very busy over the past few weeks. The increase is alarming... 18 cars stolen in the past month and over 140 in the last six months. The thefts have occurred in the Broad River and St. Andrews Road areas. 

"We're trying to combat this," said Richland County Sergeant Kim Myers.

Richland County investigators say the rapid increase in thefts also has residents' frustration levels rising. 

"A lot of times, it's during the week when people are getting ready to go to work," said Sgt. Myers.  "They go outside and they realize their car isn't there, so that's a bit of frustration there in itself."

Long-time resident Eula Holmes says the best defense against crime is neighbors helping neighbors.

"Always have someone in that neighborhood who can watch over and make sure the neighborhood is safe," said Holmes.  "And they can make sure everybody walking through there is not a total stranger."

"The victims haven't done anything wrong because none of the people who have reported their car as being stolen have done anything but parked their car," said Sgt. Myers.  "Their car was locked and they had the set of keys to the car."

Investigators say golf carts and motorcycles are also being targeted by thieves. All the thefts have happened overnight.  And for Eula Holmes, the effort to curb car thefts includes checking and double checking before heading in.

"When I get out of the car, I make sure that it's locked. And, the door behind me is locked as well when I get inside the house."