Ann recently asked Sergeant James Crowley of the Cambridge PD for more information about the recent break-ins in the Cambridge area and here is what he had to say:
While the majority of these breaks are concentrated in the Area 4 (Inman/Harrington) neighborhoods and adjacent neighborhoods in Somerville, it serves as an important reminder to our residents in other neighborhoods. Good target hardening and vigilant neighbors are the best defense against this criminal activity.
Please encourage all of your neighbors to properly secure doors and windows even while they are at home. Criminals have become more brazen and desperate and will occasionally try to enter at night while occupants are asleep. Although I try not to give these thieves too much credit, I do know that they are aware that this is the time of year that people do holiday shopping. With that comes the prospect of more cash in the home and more gifts being stored. Keeping homes secured and well illuminated will send the crooks elsewhere…
Additionally, I also urge all residents in the neighborhood to report anything that is out of character in the neighborhood. Those who reside there are in the best position to determine if a particular person or vehicle is out of place. Residents should rely on their instincts and report all activities that give them cause for even a little concern.
The Cambridge Police Department will respond to all such calls and investigate fully and work with the neighbors to ensure that they are doing everything to prevent and/or displace crime. I remain available to any resident who needs the appropriate referral for home safety/security surveys or for conversations on personal safety or any other quality of life issue that comes up in the Highlands. Please encourage people to call and/or write.
Stay Warm!
Jim
