VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – The Virginia Beach Police Department (VBPD) announced several investigations have led to the recovery of four stolen vehicles, two stolen firearms and the arrest of four juveniles.

According to officials, police have cleared 23 cases. Police said the resolutions ultimately led to the arrest of four juveniles ages 15 to 17 in connection with separate incidents.

All four suspects now face several charges, including grand larceny of a motor vehicle, possession of stolen goods and possession of firearms by individuals under 18.

In light of the recent arrests, police with the VBPD are now urging residents of Virginia Beach to lock their vehicles, take their keys with them and to remove valuables, especially firearms, from their cars.

“We have seen a direct connection between these crimes of opportunity and stolen firearms that end up used in violent incidents in our city,” Police Chief Paul Neudigate said. “Our residents and visitors play a crucial role in helping VBPD keep Virginia Beach safe; by simply locking their vehicles and ensuring all valuables are removed, especially firearms, together we can keep guns out of the hands of those not legally allowed to possess them and those that intend to use them to commit further crimes.”