Security Sees Auto Burglaries Return

A resident of Alturas Drive in Security said someone broke into his car parked in his driveway and stole a camera on Saturday. Yet he confessed that he didn’t report the theft to authorities.

“It’s too much trouble,” said the man, who asked to remain anonymous. “But I want to catch the person who did it.”

On Monday, KRDO Newschannel 13 received tips that a resident across the street from the theft victim apparently saw someone in the act of breaking into a vehicle. The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office was unavailable to discuss the situation Monday.

In February, KRDO Newschannel 13 told reported a rash of auto burglaries in the neighborhood around French Elementary School. Some arrests were made then, and some neighbors now worry they’re in for another round of crime. Alturas Drive is in the same neighborhood.

Sarah Graves has had two trucks burglarized this year at her home on Rondo Way. She said the most recent break-in happened two months ago, and that other neighbors on the street also were targeted.

“I reported mine,” Graves said. “But they didn’t report theirs because not much was taken. We talk to each other now. If we see someone or something unfamiliar, we call each other.”

Many residents in the neighborhood park in their driveways, sometimes leaving valuables inside and the doors unlocked. Parking in a garage if possible, locking doors and removing valuables are good ways to avoid becoming a victim. And report any crime to authorities immediately.

Vincent Presley said he believes the neighborhood still is safe, despite the break-ins.

“I see the sheriff’s patrol car coming through here occasionally,” said Presley. “They do drive through. They do look around. But they’re spread pretty thin as it is.”