Montgomery County Sheriff's Office increases patrols due to residential burglaries

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has responded to recent residential burglaries by increasing the patrols in residential neighborhoods and overtime.

The Sheriff’s office reported that there have been nine residential burglaries, and one of an attached garage in The Woodlands Township since January 1 thru 29. Patrol District 6, which serves The Woodlands Township, is divided into eight patrol zones which mirror the villages in The Woodlands. There were two burglaries in Zone 1- Grogan’s Mill, one in Zone 2 – Panther Creek, two in Zone 5 - Alden Bridge , two in Zone 4 – Sterling Ridge, and three in Zone 6 – Cochran’s Crossing. (There were none reported in Zone 3 – Indian Springs.)

Ninety-five percent of the home burglaries reported, were by forced entry using some type of prying tool to the rear door. Jewelry and electronics were taken from the residences; a bicycle was taken from the attached garage.  There have also been reports of car burglaries.

Residents reported seeing a tan, older model Cadillac with dark accents, in the vicinity of homes that were burglarized. It's not been determined that the vehicle is associated with the burglaries.

All cases have been referred to the detective office for follow-up except for one that the D6 Crime Reduction Unit is working.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office spokesman, Lt. Dan Norris, said that the Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols to help deter the daytime burglaries, but they can’t do it alone.

“It’s very important that residents and neighborhoods assist by calling in any suspicious activity immediately,” said Norris. “Most criminal activity is crime of opportunity.”

According to the overall statistics, crime has not increased in the community. By comparison Burglary of Habitation went from 185 in 2011 to 190 in 2012 (2.7% increase) and those statistics include attached garages. Auto Theft is down 2.8%, Criminal Mischief is down 3.2% and Robbery (individual/business) is down 37.7%. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office continues to use all available resources to deter crime.

“An important deterrent to crime are residents,” added Norris. “Acting as the eyes and ears of the community and calling in suspicious activity is one of the most important aspects to deterring crime.”

Watch meetings for a neighborhood can be arranged by calling or emailing Veronica Hernandez-Mena. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office – Crime Prevention Unit can address concerns at watch meetings. Anything suspicious should be reported to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office immediately by calling 911. Anonymous tips can be phoned into Montgomery County Crime Stoppers at 1+800-392-STOP (7867).