Over 100 Burglaries In The Past 4 Weeks Investigated By Amarillo Police

Amarillo Police have noticed an increase in burglaries in the past 4 weeks here in Amarillo.  Over 100 have been investigated in this short period of time.  So many that APD has issued crime prevention tips to citizens.  That's a bad sign y'all!

Amarillo Police report that 22-31 burglaries have been investigated each week over the past 4 weeks.

Crime rate seems to be on an increase.  It's definitely becoming a problem.  From murders to bank robberies to house burglaries, every crime statistic is going sky high.

People are flocking to Amarillo, or retreating, however you want to look at it.  The increase in population brings with it an increase in crime.  Sad to say, but it's just the truth.

There's plenty of reason to explain the growing population.  We have a low unemployment rate, local business are growing and that's creating new jobs.  We're located in the cross-hairs of 2 major highways.  Plus, you can own guns here.

Amarillo Police:

"Initial figures show that the APD has investigated 22 to 31 home burglaries a week in the last four weeks.
Burglary detectives believe some burglars select targets by driving around in residential areas, watching for people to back out of their garage, and drive away from the home. If the criminals think that no one is left in the home, they may knock on the door to confirm that…then break in if no one answers. If someone is still home and answers the door, the burglar will provide a questionable reason for being there such as looking for someone or trying to sell yard care or other services. If you notice a car that appears to be “prowling” the neighborhood, or the occupants seem to be watching your neighbors leave, please take a moment to see if the activity is suspicious. This is especially true if they are driving up and down alleys, where criminals may be looking for garage doors left open and things to steal. Note the color, make, and type of vehicle and the license plate number if you can. If the behavior looks suspicious, call the police non-emergency number, 378-3038, to report what you have seen. Some people may be reluctant to get involved or risk reporting someone that may have a legitimate reason to be there, but reporting suspicious activity doesn’t require that you provide your name or have an officer stop at your home.
Burglary investigators would like the public to be aware that they often have difficulty identifying or returning stolen property when the owner can’t provide a detailed description of the item. While television sets and computers have brands and serial numbers, jewelry is more difficult to describe, identify, and return. Specific information recorded to be provided in event of loss can make it more likely that jewelry is recovered. Descriptions like the length of a necklace, size and shape of pendants, and color/number of stones in a ring are useful. Consider taking digital photographs of jewelry or keeping pictures and descriptions of the jewelry shown in catalogs or on web sites.
Helping identify criminals before…and returning the stolen property after the crime are important ways to help stop burglary."