Car break-ins can be a major inconvenience for families, causing financial loss and a sense of unease in their own neighborhood. In Davenport, Iowa, one family has experienced this firsthand, having their vehicles broken into not once, but twice in the past year alone. Davenport Police report that car break-ins are down 25% in the city since last year, but for families like the Leete’s, the impact of these crimes is still significant.
Janne Leete and her family woke up to a nightmare in October when they discovered that two of their vehicles had been rummaged through by an individual on a bike. Despite keeping their doors locked after this incident, the Leete family fell victim to another break-in nine months later. This time, the suspect had smashed the back window of their daughter’s vehicle and stolen her designer purse. The belongings were later found scattered on the street and in the yard, adding insult to injury for the Leete family.
Frustrated by the lack of security in their neighborhood, Janne Leete filed police reports for both incidents. She expressed her concerns about the safety of her family and neighbors, questioning how many more break-ins need to occur before action is taken. Sgt. Brandon Noonan of the Davenport Police Department provided advice on preventing car break-ins and assisting in the prosecution of these cases.
Noonan emphasized the importance of keeping car doors locked and valuables out of sight to deter potential thieves. Additionally, he recommended installing quality security cameras that provide clear footage of vehicles or homes. Davenport Police offers a camera registration program where residents can register their cameras in a database to aid in investigations. By documenting serial numbers of valuable items, victims can increase the chances of recovering stolen goods and adding charges to the case.
To further support the community in preventing and solving crimes, Davenport Police encourages residents to participate in the Camera Registration Program. By registering their cameras, residents can help law enforcement access video footage quickly and efficiently in areas where crimes have occurred. This proactive approach not only enhances neighborhood security but also expedites the investigative process for law enforcement.
In conclusion, car break-ins can have a lasting impact on families, causing financial strain and a loss of security in their own neighborhood. By following the advice of law enforcement and participating in community programs like the Camera Registration Program, residents can take proactive steps to protect their property and assist in the prosecution of criminals. Together, we can work towards creating safer and more secure communities for all residents.