The Cape Girardeau Police Department’s data reveals the reported number of burglaries from January 1 to February 6 for 2013 has more than doubled since the same time period in 2011.
The number of reported incidents may vary significantly from the number of actual incidents, and the department is still investigating these recent crimes. An increase in reported burglaries is not necessarily an indicator of more theft overall because many incidents go unreported.
Cape Girardeau PD’s public information officer Darin Hickey says the thieves are targeting consumable goods.
“For the most part, this goes with any burglary, they’re looking for stuff that they can get rid of quickly. Whether it be electronics, firearms, cash, jewelry. That has pretty well been the same across the board from day one,” Hickey said.
Citizens are filing reports from all areas of the city. Hickey gives some suggestions on how to avoid a burglary.
“Make sure you lock your doors. Make sure your garage door’s closed at night. Don’t leave anything in your vehicle. Make yourself a hard target,” Hickey said. “Make yourself a difficult victim. Turn lights on, keep lights on in your home. Use these common techniques to help yourself not be a victim.”
As of Wednesday, the number of reported burglaries this year reached 74.
