Responding to a rash of recent break-ins in Brentwood, Chief of Police Dan Fitzgerald called a community meeting for Tuesday night. He reported on the meeting on the department blog.
On one day this month, residents described break-ins on Facebook, saying cars were broken into on White and Rosalie avenues. Fitzgerald said on Facebook that Brentwood Police are aware of the problem, and to call (314) 644-7100 to report anything suspicious.
Fitzgerald’s report of the May 17 meeting:
Last night, over 30 residents attended a Community Forum sponsored by the Brentwood Police Department. The purpose was to address concerns of residents with regard to recent car break-in’s in our community.
The Police Department stated this is a crime of opportunity and has been a problem for several years. Residents are frustrated with the recurrence of this problem and feel violated when their property is compromised.
How will the Police Department respond to this problem? We have increased our patrols in the neighborhoods, especially overnight. We will use alternative methods of patrol and surveillance in the neighborhoods. We will continue to educate and inform the public regarding prevention. We will notify the public when this problem occurs through social media.
How can the residents help to prevent these crimes? Remove items from your car that are worth stealing. Do not leave your keys in the car. Lock your car. Increase the lighting on your property and notify the City if your street lights are out. Call the police (644-7100) when you believe suspicious activity is happening. Be a good witness.
Those in attendance used the opportunity to ask questions and offer ideas for safety in the Brentwood community. We appreciate hearing your comments. Your input will help our Department to focus on the needs of our residents.