Increase Of Burglaries In Farmington Hills Has Police Warning Residents To Be On Alert
FARMINGTON HILLS (WWJ) - An increase in residential and business burglaries in one area has police warning residents to be vigilant about security.
Farmington Hills police are warning homeowners and retailers to be extra careful when locking up their house or business due to the unusual increase in robberies in the area of Nine and Ten Mile Roads between Middlebelt and Orchard Lake Roads.
Police have increased patrols and surveillance in the area - the recent spike in burglaries rare in Michigan's third safest city - where police say burglaries decreased 8% last year.
According to Police Chief Chuck Nebus, "The department recently arrested one subject responsible for 10 home burglaries, other persons have been identified, but at least one person is still occasionally targeting the recent area of concern. We remain hopeful that a resident acting as our eyes and ears will report something suspicious that will result in an arrest."
The Farmington Hills Police Department recommends that homeowners take the following precautions:
Doors and Windows
• All doors and windows should be locked at all times – including the door from the attached garage into the residence
• All exterior doors should be made of either metal or solid wood
• Strong door hinges should be used on the inside of the door
• If appropriate, a wide-angle door viewer should be used
• Deadbolts should be hardened steel and extend at least one inch when in the locked position
• Reinforce the strike plate with extra-long mounting screws
Lighting
• Put several lights on timers and have them set to go on/off at various times • Set radios on timers using a talk station, or leave a TV on
• Use outdoor lighting at ALL points of entry • Aim some exterior lights away from the house, but not into the roadway
• Provide light on dense shrubs and trees that could serve as hiding places
Homeowners and business owners are requested to contact the Farmington Hills Police Department if any unusual or suspicious vehicles or subjects are observed. Non-emergency events can be reported at (248)871-2600 and 911 should be dialed for emergencies.
