Police Increase Patrols

The Columbia Police department is increasing patrols to help prevent burglaries as students leave for winter break. “We typically look for anyone who doesn’t fit in the neighborhoods,” Columbia Police Officer Candy Cornman said, “We also observe the way people act and dress.” While on a patrol route, officer Cornman found several items that could easily be burglarized.”There’s a bike that isn’t secured sitting in front of a house. There’s also numerous homes without lights on that obviously look empty.” Cornman said. According to Cornman, it’s good to make the home look like someone is there by using timed lights. Also, make sure your doors and windows are securely locked.”Many ways we see burglars enter homes is by breaking down their front doors or entering through a back window,” Cornman said.Increased police patrols will continue until students come back. If you do come back to find your home burglarized, call police and do not touch anything so they can collect evidence.