Northshore Conifer posted on April 17, 2010 14:59
Sheriff Jack Strain today again urged residents of St. Tammany to take extra precautions when leaving their homes in light of a number of residential burglaries in northwestern St. Tammany Parish over the last several months.
The burglaries have occurred mostly in the rural northwestern part of the parish, although there have been some near the Covington area as well. Since last November, investigators have received reports of over twenty incidents.
Homeowners have found a variety of household items taken, and all the burglaries have occurred when the homeowners were away from home.
Residents are asked to be aware of any unusual or suspicious visits at their door from unknown persons. If someone does encounter such a visitor, they are urged to get a person and a vehicle description (with license plate, if possible) and call 911.
The Sheriff also urges residents to take extra precautions when preparing there homes before leaving. Residents should make sure all windows and doors are locked and, if an alarm system is present, to set it. They should also notify neighbors of any travel plans and arrange for someone else to keep an eye on the home. If possible, leave lights on while away. Finally, don’t leave valuable items such as lawnmowers or 4-wheelers unsecured and in plain view of the street.
Anyone with information about the burglaries is asked to call Sgt. Ben Eshleman at 276-1336.