Lexington, SC (WLTX) -  The Lexington County Sheriff's Department has released a Public Service Announcement asking residents to help keep crime down.

Sheriff James Metts says that this past year, 64 guns have been stolen from unlocked vehicles in Lexington County.
  
According to Metts, the department has seen an increase in motor vehicle break-ins since the recession and says the most common form of breaking and entering involves vehicles.

When stolen weapons are recovered they are often found at the scenes of other crimes.

"I can remember one such gun it was used at a homicide in the county," explained Metts. "And of course these guns, they don't only stay in the county, they're moved to suppliers in the black market and other locations. So, there's no doubt that individuals stealing these guns are going to sell them or trade them for drugs or whatever. And they're getting into the hands of the bad people who are going to commit crimes."

 To view the Lexington County's PSA, click here.