NEIGHBORS CAN HELP CUT CRIME

The number of residential burglaries has more than doubled over the last year in Cape Girardeau. Police feel that much of the crime wave can be attributed to a single person who is still on the loose. In 1981, authorities captured a man who had committed more than 80 burglaries that year.

Burglaries are crimes against properties, mostly accomplished when homes or offices are unoccupied. But even though people aren't home at the time, burglars can take more than material items. They often shatter an individual's sense of security.

There is no magic, just a lot of hard work to crack a burglary ring, said Police Chief Howard "Butch" Boyd.

But people can help give police considerably more eyes and ears on the streets. Through neighborhood watch programs, potential victims can fight back. Neighbors know when people don't belong. These kind of tips can provide police with a lucky break. It is also important to call when the suspicious activity occurs, not the next morning or later in the day.

At one time, neighborhood watch programs were quite active in Cape Girardeau. While a number of programs are still in place, participation has waned. With so many outside activities and commitments, a growing number of people aren't well acquainted with their neighbors.

But watching and reporting suspicious activity in a neighborhood protects not only a neighbor but yourself. When a burglar strikes, he may hit more than one house in the same area.

When it comes to burglary, the best offense is a good defense.