Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Staying Alert

***UPDATED 3/10*** Reports are that the criminals responsible for these break-ins have been apprehended, near Lynnwood, WA. More details to come, if available.***

***UPDATED 2/1***
We live in a very safe neighborhood. But crime can (and does) happen everywhere -- so please stay alert. As neighbors, let's look out for each other -- and if you see suspicious activity, please call 911.

Two Officers from the Snoqualmie Police Department joined us at our January Board meeting to brief us this situation. We appreciate the time they spent with us, talking about
what happened and about forming a community block watch.

Here is a summary of their findings: The car break-ins occurred overnight, Jan 25. While ten car break-ins occured, parked along Jacobia & Hancock Streets, eight of these cars were found unlocked (seemingly left unlocked by the owner). Only two cars had broken windows. Seemingly, in each case the stolen valuables were left IN PLAIN SIGHT in the car, visible to the thieves. Most stolen items were electronics (GPS, iPods, etc).
One credit card was stolen, which was used hours later in Lynnwood and has provided the Police their best leads. NO HOMES WERE VIOLATED.

The key to reducing crime is through prevention:
Lock your car doors. Don't leave valuables in the car (especially in plain sight). Consider leaving your patio & porch lights on. Consider leaving your blinds open so any would-be crook wonders who's watching. Be aware of what's going on. Please call police right away if you see something suspicious.

Both Officers reminded us that Snoqualmie (including our neighborhood) has a very, very low crime rate and that we live in a very safe community despite these recent concerns.***

***Original post*** Some cars were reportedly broken into last night.

They were parked along Jacobia & Hancock streets. Few details are known currently, but we will share information when it becomes available.

Homeowners are encouraged to leave their porch and patio lights on at night (for extra security) and report any suspicious activity. As with anywhere, it is unwise to leave valuables inside your car.

We all enjoy having a very safe community. And with reasonable precautions, we can keep it that way.***