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It may be the lack of frequent patrols by local police, more brazen youth bored during summer months, or just perceived “easy pickings” for a criminal element, but some West Easton residents have become victims of petty theft and home break-ins.

Petty thefts involving cars seem to be a crime of opportunity. While vehicles have not been damaged, they have been rifled through, with one Keystone Street resident losing his wallet and other personal items he left in his car overnight.

It was conveyed to me that homes on Keystone and Second Street were burgled. The Keystone residence reportedly lost jewelry and the Second Street residence interrupted the criminals, who apparently were not aware the owners were in the house that particular evening. The perps ran from residence before identification could be made.

While I’m aware of only two homes that have been targets, it would seem the cars parked on streets are chosen by convenience in ease of entry.

Youth will often walk along the sidewalk and as they pass a vehicle a quick pull on the door handle will indicate if the car is locked, or open. The movement of testing for a vehicle being locked is quick and fluid, with the person barely breaking stride as he passes by.

If open, the car is ransacked for loose money, electronics, or other valuables that may be left on the seat, in the glovebox, under the seats, or elsewhere within the car.

The search and theft can take less than 30 seconds, often with no indication that the car was invaded and the item missing, until it is sought by the owner.

Start locking your cars and tell your neighbors to do the same.

Some residents tell me they will be attending the next council meeting. It seems they want answers regarding the mill rate increase that isn’t going to be spent for a police department.

The next council meeting is August 11th, 7:00 pm, at the Municipal Building.

Of course, the only other time I saw more than a half dozen people at a council meeting was when people ran out of room to park their cars because of the heavy snowstorms.

But just in case they do show up, our West Easton Council should have plenty of time to prepare answers regarding what they intend to use that $165,000 they raised when they increased our mill rate, if not for a police department.

For some tips to protect your home, CLICK HERE.