ALLIANCE, Neb. — A juvenile was taken into custody Thursday following a series of vehicle break-ins reported in Alliance, according to the Alliance Police Department.

Police responded Jan. 15 to multiple reports of vehicles being entered in the area of West 11th Street and Sheridan Avenue. Officers determined that four vehicles had been accessed, all of which appeared to have been left unlocked.

Items were taken from at least one vehicle, including loose change and a firearm. Police said the firearm was later recovered.

During the investigation, officers identified a juvenile suspect believed to be connected to the incidents. At approximately 2:43 p.m., officers made contact with the juvenile at a residence in Alliance. With consent to search the residence, officers recovered property believed to be connected to the break-ins, including the stolen firearm and other items. Additional contraband was also located and collected as evidence.

Police said the juvenile admitted to entering vehicles in the area and later identified one of the residences and vehicles involved. One victim positively identified recovered property as belonging to them.

Juvenile Probation was contacted and an intake was completed. The juvenile is expected to be transported to a juvenile detention facility in Lancaster County. Charges are being pursued.

The investigation remains ongoing.

The Alliance Police Department reminded residents to lock their vehicles and remove valuables, including firearms, noting that unlocked vehicles continue to be a primary target for theft.