CRIME IS UP:
Crime is up everywhere and unfortunately we have to report a couple more robberies in Pinecliff. The most recent ones took place off of Cliff Point Circle West. Also, another Pinecliff vehicle was broken into with items stolen.
The criminals often seem to know the habits or schedules of homeowners, because they frequently have broken into homes while no one is home. PLEASE be aware of suspicious activity in the neighborhood and be VERY cautious when approached by strangers at your door soliciting business.
WHAT IS THE PHOA BOARD DOING TO HELP?
Board Member Carl Peterson has met with Officer Sharketti who handles cases in our area. He explained that there are several things homeowners can do to deter thieves. Some of his suggestions were installing cameras (even if they aren’t hooked up!), trimming trees and bushes around your home that may provide hiding places for criminals, setting lights on timers, leaving garage doors down, keeping blinds drawn when no one is home, and displaying “Beware of Dog” signs, or your alarm system company’s logo in a prominent place.
The PHOA board is open to ideas and suggestions and have considered several different options. Cultivating a strong membership in our HOA, educating, and sharing timely information are also ways we are trying to help.
WAYS TO HELP YOUR NEIGHBORS: pick up neighbor’s newspapers while they are away; when there is snow you can even drive into and back out of a neighbor’s driveway to create the appearance that someone may be home; shovel the driveway/sidewalk while neighbors are away; volunteer to participate in a “Neighborhood Watch.”
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP PHOA?
We rely on neighbors to be watchful and report suspicious activity in the neighborhood. Be aware that since there is a city-wide increase in burglaries and crime, we cannot always rely on local law enforcement to be able to respond to calls and alarms as quickly as we may like them to. PHOA is still trying to assess what support there is to implement an official Neighborhood Watch. That requires help and support from many of our members.
If you would like to attend a special Pinecliff Crime Prevention/ Neighborhood Watch brainstorming meeting, please mark your calendars for: Wednesday, March 13th at 7pm.
Please note that due to an overwhelming response, the meeting has been moved to a larger venue! The meeting will now be held at the Colorado Springs Together office at 6840 Centennial Blvd. Suite A (not 1170 Popes Valley Drive!).