Naples victim says truck stolen in theft ring

NAPLES, Fla.- A major car theft ring could be targeting your truck in Southwest Florida.

Law enforcement confirms Dodge and Ford trucks are big targets for thefts.

With more trucks being stolen out of driveways, people are turning to social media for help.

“Oh, I did see that,” said Erik Wartberg of a social media post about another stolen truck; this one out of North Fort Myers.

Wartberg used social media to get the word out about his stolen truck last week. It was recovered a day later. He tells WINK News, officers told him his stolen truck was a part of a theft ring.

“I hear they were working on some suspects,” said Wartberg. “A lot of trucks are getting stolen, a couple a day.”

The biggest targets in Southwest Florida are work trucks, law enforcement says mainly Fords and Dodges.

“That is my husband’s livelihood,” said Carole Guttuso of their Ford. “If that truck gets stolen, he loses his whole livelihood.”

“Just knowing it is happening in the neighborhood and driving one of these targeted trucks, it does make you know of worry,” said Ford owner Jared White.

Many owners in Naples Park are aware their trucks are being targeted so they are being proactive. “We keep an eye on it and keep the lights on,” said Guttuso.

Wartberg also keeps an closer eye on his truck and hopes whoever stole his truck gets locked up. “I will probably sleep a little better,” said Warberg. “I still don’t sleep well and every little noise, I am up looking.”

Tips to keep your truck safe: Keep your outside house lights on, keep your doors locked and/or buy a kill switch to disable your truck in the event of a theft.