InTucker Magazine

On the Beat with Lt. Smith

With the kids out of school for Spring Break, many families are packing their bags, saying “It’s time for a vacation!”

Before you jump on the plane or cram into the car for your exotic destination, there are a couple of things you may want to keep in mind so that when you return you don’t find that someone has broken into your home and made off with your valuables.

Let your neighbors or friends know that you will be out of town so that they can keep an eye on your house. Let the Post Office know that you will be out of town and ask them to hold your mail OR let that friend/neighbor pick it up for you. Motion activated lights or lights on timers inside and outside your house can give the impression to burglars that someone is home. Be sure your alarm company has an updated contact person in the event your alarm is triggered during your hiatus. Make sure you close your curtains/blinds to keep those prying eyes away from your possessions.

Finally, we know you want to share every minute of your bliss with family and friends, but try to refrain from posting on social media while you’re away. This lets everyone know your house is empty and can be an inviting target for criminals. This goes for the kids too. Yes, they may feel the world is ending without being on social media, but your peace of mind is worth it. Once you get back, everyone can share all of their memories with their Facebook friends.

Please be safe, don’t forget the sunscreen and enjoy that much-needed Spring Break vacation!

Police Blotter

Quick Response: On March 2nd, officers responded to the 4000 block of Tree Mountain Parkway in reference to a residential burglary in progress call. The officers quickly arrived on the scene and observed three males flee from a rear window. Officer Correa gave chase on foot and observed one of the males continuously reach for his pants. After catching and apprehending the juvenile suspect without incident, a search of the suspect produced a loaded revolver in one of his pockets. He explained that he was simply trying to retrieve the weapon so that he could throw it away and didn’t have any malicious intent. After speaking with detectives, he was transported to juvenile intake where he was charged with numerous complaints.

Vehicle Pursuit: On March 2nd, officers responded to a business armed robbery in progress call off of Lawrenceville Highway. While officers were still en route, radio updated the call indicating that the suspect was armed and had fled the location in a vehicle. An observant officer noticed the vehicle fleeing from the area and gave chase. The vehicle refused to stop, traveling for several miles with multiple officers in pursuit. The suspect vehicle finally crashed and the male driver jumped out and took off his jacket while running through a business. With the assistance of our aerial unit, he was apprehended in the rear of the store. The female passenger jumped out with her infant child and attempted to blend in at a bus stop. She was also apprehended. Both suspects were arrested and the child was placed in the custody of DFACS.

Weaving While Driving: While on routine patrol in the area of Juliette Road and East Ponce de Leon Avenue, Officer Woody noticed a vehicle speeding and crossing the double yellow line repeatedly. He initiated a traffic stop and immediately noticed the occupants begin moving around and appeared very nervous. With the assistance of additional units and after conducting a thorough investigation, it was discovered that two of the occupants had been involved in an armed robbery two nights before off of Juliette Road. Several narcotics were also located in the vehicle as well as a firearm. Four of the five occupants were arrested for various charges and at least one armed robbery in the area was cleared with some of the victims stolen property being recovered.