CRIME ALERT

Dear Neighborhood Watch Coordinators & Community contacts:

I wanted to pass on this crime alert as soon as possible – please pass the word on to as many neighbors as you can. The 4th Precinct has been experiencing an increased number of day-time residential burglaries. The suspect vehicle in many of the cases has been described as a red “compact” or “sporty” type of vehicle. The vehicle has been seen occupied by several black males. In several cases, one of the supects will approach the front door, knock/bang on the door several times and/or ring the doorbell. Forced entry is often made by kicking or prying windows or doors open.

Residences in Rock Creek, Bellamy Manor, Charlestown Lakes South, Carolanne Farms, Kempsville Lakes, and Alexandria are just some of the areas that have been hit with burglaries during the past few weeks. Please remind residents in your neighborhood to call the Police Non-emergency number (385-5000) right away to report any suspicious individuals and/or activity. Please keep in mind that you are not “bothering” us when you call – we would much rather respond and it turn out to be nothing, than you not call for something suspicious that later results in a crime. 911 should be called for crimes in progress (e.g., if you see someone in the process of breaking into a residence; a fight in progress; someone destroying property, etc.). I have attached a digital copy of our Home Security booklet which contains excellent information on how to make your home a harder target for criminals. Please forward and share this booklet with as many friends, neighbors and family members as possible – the more people that have this information, the better!

Remember – do not make the criminals’ “jobs” any easier. Keep your doors and windows locked; doors should have quality deadbolt locks and strike plates should be secured with 2 – 3” secrews; never open the door for anyone you do not know or were not expecting – tell them through your closed and locked door to leave your property and if you are alone, allude to someone else being there with you; install motion sensor lighting above entrances to your home; if you have a garage, always lock the interior door between your house and your garage when you leave and when you arrive home; if you do not have a Neighborhood Watch – now is the time to start one! If you do have a Neighborhood Watch in your area, make sure members who are home during the day also keep an eye on residences of those who are at work or out during the day.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me. Remember - keep a careful eye not only on your own home and property, but watch out for your neighbors’ too! Take care & stay safe,

MPO Leta Krieger
4th Precinct Crime Prevention Officer
Virginia Beach Police Department
Crime Prevention Unit
(757) 385-1324 – direct
(757) 385-1757 – main office
(757) 385-1064 – fax
Email: http://us.mc01g.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=lkrieger@vbgov.com