Once again, thieves are roaming the neighborhood and checking for unlocked car doors. This is a crime of opportunity! It is recommended by the City of Columbus Police that you remove ALL valuables from your vehicles and lock the doors. Most of the crimes in our area are non-violent and opportunistic. It is well known, and especially around the time new residents move in around July/August, that man of our newer residents tend to leave valuables in their vehicles and do not lock their doors.
I have heard many people say that they do not lock their doors because broken windows cost more to replace. However, because many of the crimes we see in this neighborhood do not involve broken windows, it is highly suggested that in order to help make the area less attractive to thieves is to not have anything in your car and keep the doors locked. There are far fewer instances of someone breaking a window, unless they see your back pack or any other signs of possible valuables in the car.
Also, it would be very helpful if more residents would be more visible during the hours between 1am and 5am. I know that there are many people in the neighborhood that have late hours and it would help as a deterrent to have would be criminals see that the neighbors are out and watching at all hours. If you see something, call it in to non-emergency 614-645-4545. However, if it is a crime in-progress it is ok to call emergency services at 911.
Stay safe and vigilant neighbors!