Several homes burglarized in one neighborhood

A Northwest Columbia neighborhood is on high alert after a several homes were burglarized within the last month.

Four Winds Villages management sent a letter to residents Sunday night explaining that five residents have reported things stolen out of their homes. But in each case, the suspect or suspect entered through an unlocked window or door.

Patrick Schnake is the President of the Homeowner’s Association for Four Winds. He said they believe residents felt so safe in the neighborhood that they didn’t need to lock their door — and that provided easy access for burglars.

Residents agreed, saying they did feel very safe in the neighborhood.

“I thought this community was very safe until I got the letter,” Amanda Johnson said. “But after reading that letter, I went through and checked every window and door multiple times.”

“I think it was friends of the residents that saw they had nice stuff and came back,” resident Henry Smith guessed.

Four Winds Villages is now installing 254 dusk to dawn lights as well as hiring an additional security firm. Columbia Police will also be increasing patrols in the neighborhood.

And residents said they’ll take their own precautions as well.

“I used to go hang out with my neighbors without locking my doors, but I won’t be doing that anymore,” Johnson said.

Right now there is not a suspect description.