Air Conditioner Thefts Leaving Chino Residents Hot And Bothered

CHINO (CBS) — A rash of air conditioner thefts have left some Inland Empire residents hot and bothered.

The Chino Police Department has received 13 reports of air conditioner theft over the last several weeks, said Michelle Van Der Linden of the City of Chino.

"In most cases, the units have been stolen from commercial strip malls, but a bank, a school, and four churches have also fallen victim to this crime," Van Der Linden said.

Thieves are targeting both ground level and rooftop units. Police believe the air conditioners are being sold for scrap metal.

Chino authorities are seeking additional information about these crimes, but say it is unknown if all of thefts are related.

Anyone with information is urged to call the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.