Hello Neighbors,
As many may already know, there were additional vehicle break-ins reported in the overnight hours of 3-5AM Sunday to Monday morning. Neighbors have reported that items were stolen or vehicles were rummaged through. Neighbors also reported having garage doors being opened – but not specific reports of theft from the garages or attempted home entries. Sadly our community is not alone in these incidents as similar incidents are being reported in Powell and other central Ohio areas:
The Board takes all these reports very seriously and strongly encourages all the affected homeowners to file the appropriate reports with the Columbus Police. Reports can be filed online at: https://www.columbus.gov/Services/Public-Safety/File-a-Police-Report it is important to note that in the city of Columbus and property theft over $1000 is considered a felony – so filing these reports is tremendously important.
Columbus Police are aware of these crimes happening in our community and as recently as February when they attended the HOA Annual Meeting gave our community the guidance that we are not alone in being affected by these crimes.
The Board has previously explored the cost of pursuing private security, installing video cameras, and even hiring off duty CPD officers for private patrols. This was discussed with our Community Liaison Officer (Officer Paulus*) when he was at our annual meeting. These options all come with additional unbudgeted costs as well as risk and liability to the association. Given the random and inconsistent nature of this crime it is quite possible that future budgeted funds could be exhausted and this type of crime will still persist. There is no consistent tactic that has proven effective other than community awareness and reducing interest in our community by securing property out of sight.
We understand the frustration that the affected homeowners are feeling and the HOA is communication with our property manager as well as Columbus Police. We encourage homeowners to secure their homes and property to the best of their ability at all times. Tips for home security measures are noted below.
Most especially we urge all homeowners to stay vigilant and safe while out in the community. If you see anyone suspicious in the community report the activity to the police non-emergency phone number: 614-645-4545. If you witness a crime in real-time, ensure your safety first and then call 911. If you see unfamiliar vehicles or suspicious persons in the neighborhood take note of make/model and any identifying characteristics – if you can do so safely. Be sure to save the non emergency number to your mobile phone so you can call at any time.
Please stay safe everyone.
*Officer Paulus recently took on a new role within the CPD, currently there is not a replacement CLO. Once a new officer is named to this role we will be sure to update the community.
Tips for Home Safety and Security
Below are listed several safety and security tips to consider for your home. The most important thing homeowners can do is be consistent in doing these items. Security isn’t for a few weeks, it must be practiced at all times.
-
- Keep all vehicles, doors, and windows closed and locked when not in use – especially garage doors and storm doors.Too often while mowing grass or completing other home errands these doors are left open leaving an opportunity for would be thieves to case property for valuables. If you use a storm door to allow natural light in, consider adding a window cling cover that “frosts” the glass to obscure your homes contents.
- If you park vehicles outdoors ensure that no valuables are left visible – including sunglasses, purses/backpacks/gym bags, tools/tool bags, tablets/laptops.If you do leave belongings like this in your vehicle label and take note of serial numbers and keep that information safe. In many cases you can add Apple Airtags or Tiles to these items to increase the likelihood of them being found. Be sure features like “Find My Phone” are active and up-to-date. Password protect your devices as applicable to render them useless in case they are used.
- Make sure you know how to use all the security items on your property and that these items are functioning properly.Flood lights and cameras should be functioning and aimed properly. Motion settings for lights and camera should be checked to ensure the appropriate sensitivity settings. Alarms should be armed when appropriate. Regularly check any and all window and glass-break sensors to ensure everything is functioning. Use your garage to store vehicles instead of leaving vehicles outdoors when possible.
- Create a nightly safety routine.Create a nightly routine checking vehicles, doors, and windows. If your vehicle has a “built-in” garage door opener see if your garage door is able to disable remotes and learn how to use this feature. Lock walkthrough doors leading from your home to your garage. Double check all windows to ensure they are completely closed and secure.
Finally, if you or your home are targeted by theft or have vehicles gone through – be sure to file a police report. The more reports we can point to indicating the crime this can aid CPD with suspects and tying additional crime incidents to those in our community.