During the month of July, the area has struggled with property crime increases. The driving factors in the increases are car break-ins and stolen cars. Car break-ins have increased nearly 70% over the past month and auto-thefts have increased over 200%
One of the keys to reducing these numbers is the citizens. With the increase, we have seen an alarming trend of victims leaving computers, cell phones, cash, GPS units, and other valuables inside their cars in plain view, and overnight. NONE of these items should ever be left in a car for any amount of time. Suspects look at cars and choose the ones that are most profitable. Don't make your car the ideal target.
Also with this trend, we have seen quite a few cars being left unlocked and even cars with extra keys left inside them. If the suspects have taken the time to get into your car, they will likely steal the car if they find the keys. It makes your car an easy target for theft. Most importantly, never leave your car running and unattended. This includes running back into your house to get something that you forgot. It only takes a second to drive off with your car.
We have deployed extra patrols in the area and we have made some successful arrest but we still need the community's help in fighting these crimes. We need citizens to call 911 for anything that is out of place. Do not worry about offending someone walking through your neighborhood. Person's engaged in legitimate activity will have no problems talking to an officer, and will likely be glad that the police are checking on them and on the area. Only persons up to questionable activities will be unhappy with the police contact. Please make every effort to watch out for your community and call 911.
Crime Tips
- Do not leave GPS units, the mounting brackets or power cords in your car overnight.
- Do not leave laptops, ipods, cell phones, or other expensive items in your car. If they have to be in your car, lock the car and lock them in the trunk when you are away from the car.
- LOCK YOUR CAR
Residential Burglaries
- Lock your home, even if you are only leaving for a shot time. This includes doors and windows.
- Use your alarm system. Make sure you are familiar with its operation and use it whenever possible
- Keep blinds closed to avoid advertising what is inside your home.
- Document serial numbers from all electronics and other valuables.
- Photograph items such as jewelry. Keep this documentation in a separate secure location.
The most important tip....
WATCH OUT FOR YOUR NEIGHBORS!! CALL 911 TO REPORT ANY SUSPICIOUS PERSONS, CARS OR ACTIVITY!
CMPD needs your help. Help get drugs and drug dealers out of our communities. It is as simple as making an anonymous phone call. Call the vice hotline to report suspected drug activity. This information is confidential. Please give as much detail as you can possibly give.
Vice and Narcotics ANONYMOUS TIP LINE 704-336-8423
