Property crimes are on the rise in Lincoln and there's no reprieve in sight.

On the WHOW Morning Show Wednesday, Lincoln Police Chief Joe Meister told Regional Radio they are seeing businesses and homes being forcefully entered and valuables like tools and bikes being stolen.

Lincoln Police are encouraging residents who know they've had their property rummaged through and even if something isn't missing, still report that occurrence. Chief Meister says it can be helpful to know that information.

Officials are encouraging residents and business owners to beef up the security of their homes and businesses. Chief Meister reminds home security systems have become a widely utilized tool in solving crime.

While Lincoln authorities are asking for residents to be mindful of their own security and locking vehicles and doors, they too are doing things to be more present. Chief Meister indicates they are shifting the focus of their nighttime patrols.

According to Chief Meister, the Safe-T Act has been extremely detrimental to crime spikes in the community. He explains they are often not only familiar with the individuals they arrest but they are repeat offenders.

Chief Meister encourages neighbors to look out for neighbors in the community. He encourages getting to know the folks next door and across the street. Being familiar with your neighbors helps when you suspect something out of the ordinary.

Additionally, Chief Meister says the residential burglaries are happening in neighborhoods across the community and a lot of the retail theft is happening on the west side of the city.

The Police Department puts out information on its Facebook page.