There have been seven burglaries in the area with few differences in the crimes, which have taken place primarily during the day when people were at work or while they have been on extended vacations. The first burglary was in September, the second in October and the rest were in November with the latest on Nov. 18.
“When they’ve been on vacation we don’t really know what time they’ve taken place, but the ones we can pinpoint have been during the daytime,” Capt. Keith Shaddix said.
With one exception, the burglars were able to enter the homes through an unlocked window. There is one case in which the perpetrators made their way into the home by forcing open a back door.
The items stolen include electronics, small appliances, rolled coins, loose change, cash, food, jewelry and even a shotgun.
“In every case it’s only been items they can carry easily with the exception of the shotgun,” Shaddix said.
Six of the homes that have been burglarized are located on Cross Creek Court — one of which has been hit three times — and the seventh burglary took place on North Avenue at a home that backs up to one of the homes on Cross Creek Court that has been hit.
“We believe they are all connected,” Shaddix said.
To prevent burglaries, police officials have posted several suggestions for the public on the department’s Facebook site:
• install outside motion sensor lighting that is placed out of reach and variable timers for lighting inside your home when you’re away;
• trim trees and shrubs near doors and windows;
• install dead-bolt locks on all exterior doors and double key locks in doors which contain glass;
• consider purchasing a dog;
• and installing an alarm system.
Police admit that even these measures won’t always stop the efforts of a determined criminal so they suggest taking other precautions that could help you get your property back if it is stolen, including:
• make a list of your belongings (be sure to keep receipts, especially for expensive items like stereos and computers);
• photograph and/or videotape your possessions as a record of what you own;
• engrave your valuables with an identification or mark to deter burglary and to prove ownership;
• get the right insurance coverage, including additional coverage to protect special items like jewelry and rare antiques.
“We’ve increased patrols in the area, but people should also take measures to protect their belongings,” Shaddix said.
Anyone having information is asked to contact Capt. Shaddix at 678-840-1315 or call Crime Stoppers at 770-838-STOP. A reward is available through Crime Stoppers for information leading to an arrest and conviction.
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