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Alert: Increase in Residential Crime
July 23, 2009
Dear Neighbor:
I am writing to alert you to an increase in residential crime, especially in the Heathwood and Rosewood areas of District 3.
Many of these break-ins have happened while residents were on vacation, and almost all have occurred during the day. Police Chief Tandy Carter urges that you:
- Let your neighbors know when you are away.
- Make arrangements to have your newspaper and mail picked up.
- Put your house on a "watch list" with the Columbia Police Department while you are gone (call 545-3500 to arrange).
- Request a "Burglary Assessment" on your home.
Our Police officers request that you be a "nosy neighbor" and alert them immediately to any suspicious or unusual activities.
Residents in the general areas of Forest Hills, Heathwood, Melrose Heights, Rosewood, Shandon,and Sherwood Forest neighborhoods should alert Commander Micheal J. Hendrix, Captain of South Region at 429-9146.
Residents in the areas of Bradley, Pinehurst, Rochelle Heights, Midlands Terrace, and the University neighborhoods should alert Lt. Leo Desrochers, Captain of the Metro Region at 413-8213.
Chief Tandy Carter can be reached at 351-2867.
Always remember that to report a crime in progress or an emergency, dial 911. Non-emergency matters may be reported at 252-2911.
Please know that public safety has my full attention. As a victim of residential crime I realize how much it means to have a visible police patrol and presence in our streets and strong communication on safety and crime. Let's pay close attention to activities in our neighborhoods and keep in communication with the Police.
I welcome your input on safety and other matters and look forward to seeing you in the near future.
Belinda Gergel
Columbia City Council, District 3 Representative