Crime Spree

I'm wondering whether people feel that the recent break-ins and attempted break-ins that have been reported on the listserv this week and earlier this fall and summer represent a new level of burglary/crime in Indian Spring or whether this is not really new either in the nature of the crimes or the level of activity? We've lived here 8 years and I don't remember there being quite this many incidents (I know there was a spate of burglaries 3 years ago).  I talked to the community outreach officer at the Silver Spring police district today, and she said that break-ins are common during the lead-up to the holidays, and that residents should take the normal precautions (some crimefighting tips are available at www.iscaonline.com).  I also asked her if the patrols in our neighborhood could be stepped up, because I rarely see police cruisers driving around here with the exception of the officers who live in the neighborhood.  Is there anything else we feel should/could be done?

Comments

[TJ]

I believe that most criminals are looking for the easier, softer way. That is why they're crooks. It's hard to get up and go to work and live a "normal" life. Stealing stuff is so much easier. ESPECIALLY when so many people give them an opportunity. I urge others to lock your car and your house. Don't leave valuables (like the GPS, iPod or whatever electronic gimmick you enjoy) laying in plain view in the vehicle.

Also, if this neighborhood got serious about citizen patrols, it would scare off these parasites and they would move on to other neighborhoods that were easier to work. We don't have to rely on extra police trips. In the few "problem areas", if we had teams of two holding radios walking around you'd dry up this pond real quick.