Monday, December 7, 2009

LPD CATCHES BURGLAR ATTEMPTING BREAK-IN

A joint stakeout with the Leland Police Department's investigations and vice/narcotics departments resulted in the arrest of James Long of 9084 Cricket Court, Leland, in the act of attempting to break into a local business.


On the night of November 5th around 11:30 PM, Long and his accomplices were observed attempting to gain entry into the Gentle Nails Salon located on Reed Road.  The suspects were also caught with several breaking and entering tools including a crowbar and bolt cutters.


Long, who has an extensive criminal record including DWI, forgery, drug possession and other breaking and entering, was transported to the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office and placed under a $10,000 secure bond.


Long is also a person of interest involving several other commercial break-ins in Leland.

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

HOLIDAY CRIME PREVENTION TIPS

The rush and good will that surround the holidays can increase the opportunities for criminal activity.  The Leland Police Department suggests these simple tips to assist you in having a safe and happy holiday season.

WHEN SHOPPING

Be ALERT and AWARE of your surroundings.  Pay attention to who is around you.  Don't leave the safety of a building or your vehicle until you have ensured it is safe.  Trust your instincts; if you feel uncomfortable with a place or person(s), get away.

Park in a well-lit area.

Remember to LOCK your vehicle!! Keep vehicle doors and windows locked while you are inside and especially when you are not!  A thief is looking for easy targets and anything you can do to deter them from choosing your car, the better.

Minimize the number of valuables left in your vehicle and keep valuables, electronics (including cell phones, laptops and DVDs) gifts and other "theft attractors" out of sight.

Protect your purse or wallet and clean our any unnecessary items before leaving home.  Don't carry large amounts of cash or extra credit cards.  Carry only those cards that you will need to use that day.  Keep a master list of all cards so if your wallet is stolen, they can be reported promptly to the appropriate banking facility.

* Never leave your purse, wallet or cell phone unattended in a public place.

* Don't overburden yourself with packages while shopping.

* Shop with a friend; their is safety in numbers.

* Role-play with children about what should happen in the event you are seperated.

* Have your keys out and ready when you return to your vehicle.

Do not leave your car unattended with the motor running or with the keys in the ignition; even for the very short time needed to do a quick errand or pay for fuel.

Only make online purchases from trusted, secure websites.  Look for "https" in the web address to verify security.

AT HOME

Make sure all doors & windows have secondary locks (window pins, deadbolts, dowels, etc.) and use them!

Ensure the dark areas and entrances have outdoor lights that are turned on after dark or are activated by sensors.

Place gifts where they can't be seen from the outside.

Avoid opening the door to strangers.  Legitimate delivery people will be able to show identification.

Investigate charities before donating by call the Secretary of State's office or the charity's main office.

Be sure to mail cards with money, checks or gift certificates from the Post Office or a blue US Postal Service collection box.

If travelling, use timers for lights and radios while you're away.  Ask a trusted friend, neighbor or Block Watch member to watch your home.  Make arrangements for mail and newspapers.

WHEN DRIVING

Recognize that the holidays can cause stress; keep emotions under control while driving.  Give other drivers plenty of space and always leave yourself a route to avoid an accident.

If you attend parties where alcohol is served, remember to use a designated driver.

Prepare for winter driving conditions and equip your vehicle with cold weather emergency supplies.

Minimize distractions such as talking on a cell phone.

Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue, especially when driving long distances.  If you get tired, stop and rest until you're able to drive with full attention.

Buckle up!! That means passengers and kids, too!!

Be patient!  Give yourself extra time for travel, especially in snow or rain.

Even in dry conditions, traffic during the holidays is heavier than normal, and it will take longer than you expect to get around.

AFTER THE HOLIDAYS

Pay close attention to bills and report any unauthorized charges.

Photograph and record the serial numbers of new items and add them to your inventory.

HERE'S WISHING YOU A SAFE AND CRIME-FREE HOLIDAY SEASON!!