Police: Don’t fall victim to holiday criminals

MARION COUNTY, W.Va. – Local law enforcement officials are asking the public to think about personal and property security over the holiday season. Most property crimes are “crimes of opportunity” and no season provides more opportunities than November, December and January.

Detective from the Marion County Sheriff’s Department D. Forsythe says lock doors, windows and lock your car, even in your own driveway. In short, don’t make it easy for theives.

“This time of year it’s dark a lot,”Forsythe said,”One of the first things you can do is have everything well lit-a little preparedness goes a long way in a situation like that.”

Forsythe does not recommending confront a criminal, but says most will run when they discovered by the property owner.

Forsthye wants residents to know they are here to help and they should error on the side of caution.

“Part of what wer’re here for is to make sure nothing is going on,”Forsythe said,”If we end up coming to something that is a false alarm, then better safe than sorry.”

Another step homeowners can take is to keep brand names, model numbers and serial numbers of expensive items in writing in separate place. Police can use the information to track property in the event of a burglary or theft.