An increase in burglaries and other property crimes is prompting Doña Ana County Sheriff’s deputies to warn county residents to be extra cautious as the holiday season approaches.
Some areas of Doña Ana County have seen a spike in the number of reported burglary incidents, including the Fairacres and Picacho Hills neighborhoods and as far south as Santa Teresa. Deputies caution residents to be vigilant about locking doors and keeping valuables either in cars or in yards and through windows.
“Don’t be a victim to a thief who is looking for a crime of opportunity,” said Criminal Investigations Division supervisor Capt. Jon Day. “Several of these recent incidents happened because someone didn’t lock their car doors, or their property is not adequately lit, which can deter criminals who are trying not to be seen.”
Day advises residents to take precautions when traveling, ensuring doors and windows are locked while away, and making arrangements to have newspaper delivery temporarily suspended. Residents might also find the following tips useful to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of crime:
· Put indoor and outdoor lights on a timer to make it look like someone is home.
· Keep large displays of holiday gifts away from windows or doors where they can be easily seen.
· When shopping, stay alert of your surroundings in crowded parking lots. Locate your keys prior to approaching your vehicle. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
· Record serial numbers of electronics in your house. If possible, keep photographs of your property on a flash drive or documented in a secure location. In the event of a burglary, this information will help to quickly identify your property if it is recovered.
Information from Doña Ana County