Peachtree City police are encouraging "hide your purse and lock your car," says Chief James Murray.

Last week the department investigated more than 10 thefts of purses and other items from unlocked cars parked at elementary schools, neighborhoods and shopping centers. Besides purses, items taken included stereo equipment, cellular phones and compact discs, reports noted.

Murray said the school-grounds thefts occurred at Braelinn and Huddleston Elementary Schools and apparently took place while the drivers "ran into the school for just a minute but a minute is all it takes. Hide your purse, and lock your car."

He added that police have been able to obtain video of a suspect apparently using one of the credit cards taken in the thefts, so an arrest may be imminent.