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Community Corner

Police Notice Drop in Burglaries

In recent weeks, the number of daytime burglaries has dropped dramatically.

The , and police don't have a definitive answer to why the rash of recently burglaries has suddenly ended.

Chief of Police Ron MacPherson wasn't sure why the burglaries have suddenly stopped in Southampton, but he hopes it remains that way.

Although detectives have "looked into several possible suspects," nobody has been arrested in connection with the spree of recent thefts.

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"We hope residents remain vigilant," MacPherson said. If you see anything suspicious in your neighborhood MacPherson urged residents to call 911.

Next week, MacPherson said he plans to meet with a group of town residents who are interested in starting a town watch program.

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, but the chief could not release any descriptions of suspects at this time.

During the nearly 3-month-long break-in spree, the suspects gained entry to empty homes during the daylight hours through several differnt places and typically took jewelry, which could be easily sold at pawn shops, the chief said at the time.

Southampton detectives are working with counterparts in several other local towns where similar burglaries have occurred.

the recent uptick in break-ins could be linked to an increase in drug use that police have reported.

The Insurance Information Network of California recommends the following tips to help protect your home from a would be burglar:

  • “Case” your home the way a burglar might and look for easy entrance points.
  • Protect your doors with solid locks — 80 percent of break-ins are through a door.
  • Consider a home security system that will sound an alarm if triggered. Leave blinds and curtains in their normal position.
  • Don’t allow trees and shrubs to conceal doors and never hide your keys outside.
  • Use automatic timers for lights, radios and televisions to make the home appear “lived in.” Lower the sound on your telephone ringer and answering machine.
  • Never announce your vacation plans via social networks.
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