DURHAM — Durham Police are looking for thieves targeting cars parked near Duke Forest.

The forest is a popular spot for biking, jogging and walking.

The thieves are taking the purses, money and cell phones people leave in their cars while visiting the woods.

In the past 30 days or so, there have been 21 break-ins -- quite a few more than this time last year.

Campus security officials say they want to do everything possible to keep the area safe for students and the public alike. Patrol officers are everywhere on foot and in cars.

J.F. Fleming, a member of the campus security staff says that the university wants the community to feel safe anywhere on campus, so they are working hard to elminate the problem.

The Orange County Sheriffs Department also is joining in the effort to make Duke Forest a safer place for park visitors.

So far there have been no arrests made in the burglaries, but Duke Police say they do have some leads on the possible suspects.

Meanwhile, police have some tips that will help keep you and your valuables safe.