Crime statistics may be down but recent high profile incidents in our neighborhoods fly in the face of that fact. If you have been with me at any of several recent neighborhood association meetings, the division of police representatives tell us crime is down across the city and in our area too.
Now contrast that with the Lansdowne-Merrick safety and security meeting called after the untimely death of a Tishoff Court resident. After comments from the association president and myself, the police sergeant steps up and first tells the story of a morning break in on Lakewood Drive that featured a woman resident hiding under her bed and calling 911 while an intruder was inside the home.
On Tishoff Court, the now departed Mr. Rogers was in essence beaten and stabbed by someone known to him. This was a non-random act of violence that ended a fine man’s life for so little. On Lakewood Drive the resident was home alone and in the shower. At about 9:15 a.m. – a similar time to other crimes on residential blocks nearby – after repeatedly ringing the doorbell, the perpetrator gained entry by kicking in a door. The home has an alarm system, but it wasn’t armed as the resident was home. Moments later the homeowner is left cowering under the bed calling for help now. Our police responded quickly and with precision. After the robber dove through a window screen, a short pursuit ensued and he was apprehended. Out on parole he will now serve out the remaining 10 years of his original sentence plus.
What a great opportunity to have this safety meeting, drawing attention to neighborhood concerns surrounding this issue. What followed was an excellent civics lesson in neighbors helping one another. Ideas were exchanged. Other concerns were voiced. I have numerous notes to follow up on. Neighbors don’t want to feel disenfranchised in their homes or neighborhoods. They want more aggressive policing, and I am glad to say that we’re in a position to offer it.
Today both the police and fire services are near fully staffed according to authorized strength. We have over 550 police officers and a similar number of firefighters. That’s little comfort to some, and I understand that. It’s a point of confidence for others and an accomplishment for all in these economic times.
We each need to be better neighbors joining our neighborhood associations, participating in neighborhood social media and by pairing off with a neighbor for safety. Be wary in answering the door. Lock your access door from the garage. Be aware of folks working in the neighborhood and don’t hesitate to call 911 if you think something is wrong.
Lexington is a blessed city. We live in natural beauty and enjoy being civically involved. As we all give thanks during this season take a moment with a neighbor to connect and add to the safety and security of those around you.
As another precaution, go ahead and get in the spirit by taking a lot of pictures. Since it’s not about rolls of film anymore but gigabytes, we can all take numerous photos. I am going to suggest close-up pictures of jewelry and coins. That captures detail and is a quick inventory. Also, step back and take pictures of whole rooms; again great for inventory and as a time stamp of what you have. If you are so inclined, etch or mark valuables with your cell number. Once all the photo inventory work is done, remember to step back and take photos of your loved ones for holiday keepsakes.