With many gifts being exchanged this holiday season, authorities warn that criminals are looking to steal some.
In reviewing crime statistics over the past several years, the Palatka Police Department has noticed a significant increase in thefts and burglaries following Christmas Day, Assistant Police Chief James Griffith said Tuesday.
The estimated increase was more than 30 percent.
"Many of these are thefts of property that people have received as gifts," Griffith said.
He offered a few suggestions in the hope that residents can avoid being victimized.
"Be careful what is visible in your trash that you leave outside," Griffith said. "Criminals will be checking to see who received expensive gifts by looking at the boxes and containers you leave in your trash.
"Disassemble packaging of expensive items such as televisions, DVD players, gaming systems, computers, etc., and put them in opaque garbage bags," he said.
Items such as bicycles should not be left outside unsecured, Griffith added.
Valuables should not be left in vehicles and car doors should be locked at all times.
"Be on the lookout for suspicious persons walking or riding through your neighborhoods, day or night," Griffith said.
Unusual activity should be reported immediately.
[email protected]
This was in my email, and I thought appropriate to send along. It's good food for thought. Merry Christmas to all.
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Watch out for crooks who go 'shopping' following the holidays
BY ROBERT YOUNIS
Published: Wednesday, December 24, 2008 12:29 AM EST
Palatka Daily News
In reviewing crime statistics over the past several years, the Palatka Police Department has noticed a significant increase in thefts and burglaries following Christmas Day, Assistant Police Chief James Griffith said Tuesday.
The estimated increase was more than 30 percent.
"Many of these are thefts of property that people have received as gifts," Griffith said.
He offered a few suggestions in the hope that residents can avoid being victimized.
"Be careful what is visible in your trash that you leave outside," Griffith said. "Criminals will be checking to see who received expensive gifts by looking at the boxes and containers you leave in your trash.
"Disassemble packaging of expensive items such as televisions, DVD players, gaming systems, computers, etc., and put them in opaque garbage bags," he said.
Items such as bicycles should not be left outside unsecured, Griffith added.
Valuables should not be left in vehicles and car doors should be locked at all times.
"Be on the lookout for suspicious persons walking or riding through your neighborhoods, day or night," Griffith said.
Unusual activity should be reported immediately.
[email protected]
This was in my email, and I thought appropriate to send along. It's good food for thought. Merry Christmas to all.
------
Watch out for crooks who go 'shopping' following the holidays
BY ROBERT YOUNIS
Published: Wednesday, December 24, 2008 12:29 AM EST
Palatka Daily News
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