Burglary Prevention from MPD

Burglaries Occurring in Your Neighborhood There has been an increase in burglaries throughout District Four’s geographical area. The majority of the burglaries are occurring between 6am and 6 pm. Although a trend may develop in one particular neighborhood, this trend can change and vary from neighborhood to neighborhood. Burglars tend to target homes where it appears that no one is home, as well as vacant homes that are for sale or under foreclosure. It is important that citizens take preventive measures by being proactive to avoid becoming a victim of burglary. By giving the impression that someone is home will most likely decrease the chance of a break in. The method burglars use to enter homes varies depending on the layout of the home. Entry may be gained by removing an air conditioning unit, kicking in the door, smashing the patio doors, breaking a window, and on many occasions burglars will gain entry through unlocked windows or doors. When there is no vehicle in the driveway or vehicles parked in the front of the residence, burglars may assume that no one is at home. Burglars will look for certain things or patterns of behavior that are indicative of an unoccupied home, or a home that would be easier to enter. Burglars tend to take televisions, computer ware, gaming systems, jewelry, tools, yard equipment and valuables that are easily concealed. The vacant homes are usually targeted for the copper piping, water tanks, and furnaces. Take Preventive Action to Protect Your Property by being Proactive!! Try not to leave outside lights on during the day Try to keep blinds or curtains closed Make sure all windows, doors, including patio doors are secured; wooden poles and metal pegs are also helpful in securing windows and patio doors If you have an alarm system, use it! Trust Your Instincts and be Vigilant!!!!! Example: Any unusual vehicles parked in front of your neighbor’s house or driveway; vehicles commonly used are mini vans, full size vans, sport utility trucks (SUV’s), or utility trucks Subjects in neighborhoods going door to door Subjects acting as solicitors Subjects coming to the door asking for a person who don’t live there Vehicles circling the block at night or during the day Report any suspicious activity, people, or vehicles that appear to be out of the ordinary to the non-emergency # 414-933- 4444, or depending on the severity of the activity call 911 Your calls have assisted police on several occasions in apprehending suspects during the commission of a crime, and provided leads in solving crimes in your neighborhoods