Police Warn Of Increase In Residential Burglaries

Last updated on Wednesday, March 8, 2017

(UNDATED) - Lawrence County Police are warning residents of an increase in residential burglaries in situations
where the homeowner has passed away.

According to Chief Deputy Aaron Shoults, over the last few weeks detectives have worked at least five such burglaries.

"Within days of the homeowners passing and while the families are focused on funeral arrangements and other family matters the homes are being burglarized by someone who is obviously monitoring local obituary notices," Chief Deputy Shoults wrote in an email.

Families can take steps to help prevent these burglaries:

Give the home the appearance that someone is staying there by parking unused vehicles in the drive.
Leaving lights on inside/outside the residence
Collect mail from mailboxes
Ask a trusted neighbor to watch the home and report any unusual activity, persons, or vehicles that may be in the area, or at the home
If possible have a family member actually stay at the residence

If you see suspicious activity report it immediately by calling 911.

If you have information concerning any criminal activity in Lawrence County you can call the TIP LINE at (812) 277-2020 and leave that information anonymously.

1340 AM WBIW welcomes comments and suggestions by calling 812.277.1340 during normal business hours or by email at comments@wbiw.com

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