16 Home Burglaries in Two Weeks

Police are warning residents about burglars preying on people gone for the holidays, especially after they’ve opened Christmas gifts.On Thursday, officers said there have been 16 break-ins and burglaries since the winter break started two weeks ago.Homes are especially vulnerable because a lot of people are traveling and break-ins typically go up during this time. Police said burglaries were down during Thanksgiving break compared to last year, and it’s thanks to added patrols and extra precautions.Having a neighbor hold your mail and setting a timer for lights help prevent crime. “Make sure when you travel for the winter break or leave town, lock the doors, and make sure the locks work properly,” said Latisha Stroer with the Columbia Police Department.Police are also warning everyone to keep new gift boxes out of plain sight so people can’t see their new TVs or electronics through the windows.Finally cops urge people to be a good neighbor and keep an eye on strange activities.