The recently growing frequency of residential and vehicle burglaries in Morgan Hill has prompted police to warn residents about the importance of taking some basic precautions so property owners can avoid becoming victims.
Since Nov. 1, Morgan Hill police have documented a total of 23 burglaries, according to Sgt. Troy Hoefling.
Of those break-ins, eight were residential burglaries. Fifteen were auto burglaries, Hoefling said.
Furthermore, the Greenleaf neighborhood has seen the biggest spike in the occurrence of burglaries, police said. This neighborhood includes Jasmine Way, Bluebonnet Court, Peppertree Drive and Almond Way.
“We are asking all of our residents to be extra vigilant and to keep an eye on their neighborhood,” Hoefling said. “Please report anything that is out of the ordinary or suspicious by calling MHPD or 911.”
Easy ways to avoid being burglarized include avoiding leaving valuable items in parked vehicles overnight or when left unattended, or keeping valuables out of sight – preferably locked in the trunk, police said.
Auto burglars commonly smash a window to gain entry into the vehicle, after they observed something of value in the vehicle that they want to steal, police said.
Also, when leaving home residents should make sure all the doors and windows are locked, Hoefling said.
“Stay in your driveway to make sure that your garage door closes and stays closed. Park your vehicle in a well-lighted area. If you are leaving town overnight or for some time during the holidays, notify a trusted neighbor and ask them to keep an eye on your house,” Hoefling said.
Residents can schedule a neighborhood watch meeting by calling Officer Greg Dini at the Morgan Hill Police Department, at (408) 779-2101.
