July 20, 2002 – There has been "a substantial increase" in burglaries reported in May, June and into July on St. Thomas, compared to the first quarter of the year, according to the Police Department.
A release from Deputy Police Chief Theodore Carty on Friday said reported burglaries in January through March averaged 60 per month. Then, in April, 104 cases were recorded. Since then, he said, there has been "an increase by approximately 20 percent."
Carty did not give specific numbers for May and June, nor did he provide comparative figures for the preceding year, the standard basis on which statistical increases or decreases are calculated.
Areas that have shown a particularly high incidence of robberies, he said, are Estates Anna's Retreat, Contant, Smith Bay and Thomas. He added that sporadic break-ins occurred "in scattered communities and businesses, as well."
While burglar alarms can be helpful in deterring trespassers, Carty said, residents should be more alert, "especially in the summer," to the activity of people in their area who are stopping by or just passing through, "either on foot or by vehicle."
"Suspicious activity is a good reason to call 911," he said.
Carty noted that the Police Department's Crime Prevention Bureau provides information to the public on how to protect property. The bureau provides officers to speak to community groups about forming Crime Watch Neighborhoods in both residential and business areas. The bureau telephone number is 776-1525.
Publisher's note : Like the St. Thomas Source now? Find out how you can love us twice as much — and show your support for the islands' free and independent news voice … click here.
