A business owner is offering a $500 reward to anyone with information leading to the arrest of the person or people responsible for a string of overnight burglaries in East Limestone.

Marcy Hamilton of Rocket City Motors and Rocket City Sheds said her personal vehicle was burglarized in the Oak Leaf Estates neighborhood. The thief or thieves took company checkbooks from her unlocked vehicle and broke a toy belonging to her 10-year-old daughter who has autism.

Deputy Stephen Young, spokesman for the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office, said his department was working at least 17 car and residential burglaries and added there could be more.

Hamilton said her neighbor discovered the burglaries early this morning and woke her up. She said it was her understanding the thief or thieves only hit unlocked vehicles. She added it’s the first time this has happened in her neighborhood.

“My dad always told me, never leave anything valuable in your car and leave your car unlocked,” she said. “Replacing a busted window is a lot more expensive than replacing a radio or anything else somebody might want. … It will make me think twice now (about locking my car doors).”

When asked if she had a message for the person or people responsible for the burglaries, Hamilton paused to think of a sentiment that could be printed in a family-friendly newspaper.

“You’re going to get caught, and I hope it’s someone who needs $500 who catches you,” she said.

Anyone with information is urged to call the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office at 256-232-0111.