Watchful Neighbors

A watchful neighbor and quick action by four Montgomery police officers resulted in the arrest of three men breaking into cars last week, reflecting how community involvement can reduce crime in the city.

Police departments alone cannot reduce criminal behavior and partnerships such as this one make a big difference. The neighbor who called was able to give dispatch a detailed description of the suspects and police officer Robert Roberts was on the scene immediately. Officers Anthony Osborne and Joseph Peterson also responded. The officers conducted a safety search of the subjects and found one of them in possession of a large number of coins as well as a substance believed to be Spice. The officers canvassed the area and were able to make contact with a victim, who advised that his vehicle had been unlawfully entered and that change had been stolen from inside the car. The officers canvassed vehicles in the neighborhood and found many of them to be unlocked.

One of the suspects gave a full confession and further advised that the group was planning to commit additional vehicle burglaries. The suspects were taken into custody and an additional warrant was secured for one of the men for Obstructing Justice Using False Identity.

During the investigation, it was discovered that two additional suspects stole another neighbor’s Chevy Tahoe. The pair was reportedly headed to the west side of town, where Officer A.L. Goins is assigned to patrol. Because he knows this district, so well, he was able to locate the stolen truck in only a few minutes.

As engaged citizens, trust your instincts when something doesn’t look right and report all suspicious activity. Remember, you are an expert at recognizing what does and doesn’t look out of place in your neighborhood. You may just prevent someone in your neighborhood from becoming a crime victim.

In addition, protect your property by securing your valuables. Don’t leave packages or valuables in plain sight. Briefcases, sun glasses, small change, gym bags, and electronics are all tempting to a thief. Take your valuables with you or lock them in your trunk- but not at the spot where you intend to leave your vehicle. A potential thief may be watching you.

Law enforcement agencies often can recover stolen vehicles if they have the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Look for your number on the serial number plate (usually mounted on top of the dashboard on the driver’s side just under the windshield) and write it down. An identifiable number may not stop a theft, but it can help stop and prosecute the thief and return the stolen property to its rightful owner.

Don’t leave your automobile registration, credit cards, or other important information in your glove compartment. A thief could use these documents to try to resell your car.

When the community and police work together, neighborhoods become safety networks. The ability of each of us to contribute to our own well-being and increase community safety is more important now than ever. While law enforcement will always be the gatekeepers of the law, it is everyone’s responsibility to speak up when they see potential danger and take safety precautions.