11/16/2009
Hello Neighbors,
Two representatives of the CVPD addressed nearly 150 Greens/Trails residents regarding a recent rash of home burglaries and auto thefts in our Eastlake neighborhoods. There were 18 reported incidents in Eastlake II/III through the month of October.
Officer Leo Banales provided general precautions to avoid being a victim of these crimes. He indicated the suspects have been focusing their efforts on easy targets, i.e., open garage doors, unlocked front/back/side doors, open windows etc. These crimes have generally occurred during daylight hours when the homes were unoccupied. Bottom line, lock your doors even if your only running to a local store for a few minutes.
A few tips offered:
Ensure you front door peep-hole does not have an obstructed view (seasonal wreath etc.)
Make good use of exterior lighting to include motion sensors.
All exterior doors should have a deadbolt with a one-inch throw.
Know who is at your door prior to opening.
Ensure your sliding door has a lift prevention kit installed on the top rail.
Place a security bar (sturdy wood or metal) in the bottom track of your sliding glass door.
Always close and lock your garage door.
Lock the door leading from your garage to home's interior.
Lock your vehicles and do not let your garage door opener in view (it is better to take it inside your home).
Officer Banales reminded residents to be alert to any/all suspicious activity or suspicous (out-of-place) persons in our neighborhood and not to hesistate to call dispatch at (619) 691-5151 to report suspicious activity. Do your best to have a description of the individual or car when calling. If you have unoccupied/vacant homes in your immediate neighborhood, keep an eye them as these have also been a draw for criminal activity.
Finally the issue of loud parties / loud noise was addressed. Noise complaints can be called in to dispatch (619) 691-5151 at any time, yes, even during the middle of the day. Officer Banales recounted when he was a patrol officer and would have to work the grave-yard shift and sleep during the day. Resources permitting CVPD will respond and inform the offender to reduce the volume.
Be alert and let's look out for one-another!
