By Jim Wallace - bio | email
August 22, 2008
Dougherty County, GA (WALB) - Dougherty County Police report an increase in burglaries and larcenies, and think the economy is one reason for this crime increase. Police are asking the community to help them step up efforts to fight the crooks, and have some suggestions how you can protect your property.
This is Surveillance video of three burglars ransacking a Dougherty County convenience store Wednesday morning, stealing more than $7000 in cash, lottery tickets, and phone cards, causing more than $2000 in damage to the store. The crooks smashed a hole in the back wall to break in. A high profile burglary that County Police have seen on the increase of late.
Dougherty County Police Chief Don Cheek said "The economy, when it goes south, property crime tends to go up."
Cheek says larcenies are more a problem, especially air conditioner and copper wire theft. The Chief recommends that turning on more lights outside is the best defense against burglars for both business and homeowners. For businesses, good surveillance equipment and alarm systems are a good investment.
Cheek said "Good camera systems are valuable tools for us. Clearing the visibility area where when we go by a store, we can look in to see if there is anything visibly out of place."
And for homeowners, Cheek says neighborhood watches, people keeping an eye on each other's homes, really works.
Cheek said "Get out and meet your neighbor. We urge you to do that."
Chief Cheek says they urge you to report suspicious people, and let Police check them out. He says the community and Police working together will cut this crime increase.
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