Thank you Detective J. Mayo so much for your presentation on criminal activity in Yorba Linda and the preventative steps we can take to protect ourselves.
Here is a brief synopsis of his presentation:
The most common crime in Yorba Linda is property theft. Criminals are becoming more brazen with crimes often being committed during daylight hours and in front of witnesses.
Petty theft criminals are being released early due to jail over-crowding. There are many instances of plea bargains, further reducing the amount of time an offender spends behind bars. Typically, the criminal may serve a few months behind bars and then serve up to 36 months probation. The criminals have nothing to lose by continuing to commit crimes because the consequences are not significant enough.
Most often, these crimes are tied to drug use.
What can we do to protect ourselves?
Home:
- Make sure windows and doors are locked when we are not home
- Do not leave your garage door open and unattended.
- If you see something unusual in your neighborhood, notify the police. (a strange car, people loitering, …)
- Leaving on vacation? Have someone pick up your newspapers and mail.
- Inform neighbors of your travel plans so if they see something amiss they can report it to the police.
- File a “vacation check” form at the police sub-station on Yorba Linda Blvd and San Antonio. A CAPs volunteer will check on your home regularly during your absence and report anything that seems out of place to the police.
- Install a security system, camera system (real or “dummy system)
Car:
- Do not leave anything in your car, including bags (empty or full)
- Items typically taken from cars are iPods, GPS systems, wallets, and computers.
- Do not show criminals where you store valuables. They stake out fitness gyms and shopping areas. Do not place items in your trunk when you get there. You have just shown the criminal where to look. Criminals can easily break into your trunk.
- Park in areas that have a lot of foot traffic, not in remote areas.
- Lock your car doors wherever you are, day or night.
We can make a difference in our community!
- Report any activity that seems out of the ordinary.
- Protect your self and your belongings.
- Get to know your neighbors.
Volunteer Opportunity:
If you are interested in volunteering in your community, the CAPS program is a dedicated group of individuals who selflessly give back to their community. The vacation check program is only one of the many ways they assist Bread PD in keeping our community safe. For more information about this program, go to: http://www.joinbreapd.com/article.cfm?id=40
