It’s the holiday season and Webster Parish residents are making plans to celebrate with friends and family.
Sheriff Jason Parker wants folks to enjoy themselves during this very special next couple of weeks, but he also wants everyone to remember this is also the season to consider making plans to be cautious.
“It’s a beautiful time of the year but unfortunately, it’s also a time that seems to bring out those whose motives aren’t so good,” Parker said. “We often see thefts increase during Christmas and we don’t want our residents, especially in rural areas, to become victims.”
Parker said people who live in rural areas and communities usually know their neighbors. That, he said, can be an advantage not only in solving crimes, but in acting as a deterrent.
While nighttime hours may seem to be preferred by thieves, many property thefts occur during broad daylight when individuals are away from home. That’s when knowing neighbors is a good thing.
“If anyone notices unfamiliar vehicles repeatedly driving through their area, it could mean it’s someone scoping out houses for a potential theft,” he said. “If someone notices a strange vehicle parked on property when the owners are not home, they should immediately notify us. We’re only a phone call away.”
Individuals who notice suspicious vehicles and persons are urged to take note of specifics.
“If it’s a vehicle, we ask people to remember the make, model, color and if possible, the license number,” he said. “It’s also helpful if they can identify the number of persons inside the vehicle and any description of those individuals if they can.”
With the gift buying season in full swing, many individuals have turned to the Internet to do their shopping. That means packages arriving by delivery vehicles, often left at the door if no one happens to be home.
Parker said packages on the front porch can be an invitation to thieves who have studied the habits of homeowners, especially those in rural areas.
“We understand that people have things to do, but we would urge them to try and be home if there’s a delivery coming, especially if there’s going to be a high-ticket item or multiple items,” he said. “Delivery companies can usually provide an anticipated delivery date and time.”
While they’re being vigilant for potential dangers like thefts, residents are also urged to keep an eye on their elderly neighbors.
“Elderly individuals want to remain in their homes as long as possible, whether they’re a couple or it’s an individual,” Parker said. “It would be a good idea to check on them occasionally, especially if they have family who live far away. A phone call or quick visit is a good thing.”
Residents who are going to be away from home for a lengthy period are urged to contact the Sheriff’s Office.
“We routinely step up our patrols during the holidays, and we’re always happy to make an extra round or two if we know someone’s going to be out of town for a few days,” the Sheriff said.
“All we need is an address and an idea of how long a person will be away. We’d also like to know if they’ve given someone permission to check on their residence so we can know if there’s a strange vehicle on the property.”