Published: June 11, 2009 07:14 pm      

Rash of burglaries hits area

By VANESSA WELCH

vanessa.welch@register-news.com

MT. VERNON — An increase in the number of burglaries during the past month has prompted the Jefferson County Crime Stoppers to offer a $200 reward for the arrest of the burglar or burglars that have been breaking into businesses, homes and vehicles.

According to Mt. Vernon Police Chief Chris Mendenall, removing valuables from vehicles along with locking doors will decrease the motive of vehicle burglars until suspects are caught.

“Some of [the residents] aren’t locking their vehicles, but in most cases, they are leaving valuables inside their cars like a purse, a GPS or other valuables such as laptops and computers,” Mendenall said. “Also, some vehicles have removable stereo systems that should be removed and taken inside.”

Between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. on June 10, nearly 15 burglaries were reported to MVPD that occurred either the previous night or between those hours. One area resident reported someone had thrown a brick through their car window to steal a purse, according to police logs. Along with burglaries that occurred at residences, three vehicles were also reported to be burglarized at area hotels.

“In some cases, people are not locking their doors and the suspects are rummaging through their cars looking for change or anything like that,” Mendenall said. “Anything of value should not be left in a vehicle overnight and residents should also keep their vehicles locked.”

Common items which have been stolen from businesses and homes include laptop computers, electronic equipment and cash.

Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity or who may have information for the police may contact MVPD at 242-2131, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office at 242-8004 or the Jefferson County Crime Stoppers at 242-8477. Any information leading to an arrest will be recognized with the $200 cash reward through Crime Stoppers and all calls are confidential and anonymous.