Cops crack down on housing vandalism

  • Published
LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. --  A $1,000 reward is being offered for anyone providing information leading to a conviction in a recent rash of housing vandalism and thefts.

Vandals have caused more than $100,000 of damage to newly renovated residences in the past month alone; primarily in the junior enlisted housing area.

Security forces investigators are on the trail of the vandals and need everyone's help in preventing future incidents.

"You don't come into our backyard and commit these crimes," said Maj. Timothy McCarty, 19th Security Forces Squadron commander. "Make no mistake, you will be caught and you will pay the price."

In addition to the vandalism, a spike in thefts of electronic devices such as laptops, gaming systems and televisions has been reported to authorities.

"These crimes have the full attention of base leaders and your assistance is needed," said Senior Master Sgt. Mark Evans, 19th SFS operations superintendent. "Prevention is the first step we all can take."

Sergeant Evans reminds all residents to lock all doors and windows of their homes to help prevent unauthorized access. Some vandalized homes were entered through unlocked doors. Also, ensure outside lights are left on at night to ensure a residence looks occupied.

"These simple steps serve as efficient deterrents for criminals looking for the 'easy' target," said Sergeant Evans. "Also, remind neighbors of these tips to keep your neighborhood safer."

The holiday season is here and many people will be traveling during this time, but security forces patrols will be out protecting the community. There are also preventative measures people can take if they're going to be away from home for an extended period of time.

"Base residents can notify 19th SFS of the dates the home will be vacant and patrols can perform routine checks on the home," said Sergeant Evans. "In addition to these checks, you can also ask neighbors to keep an eye on your home while you're away. For base families who reside off base, the local police departments offer the same routine checks."

Base residents are encouraged to perform Neighborhood Watch duties in their respective housing areas.

"Often vandalism is witnessed by non-participants or the vandals talk openly about their acts," said Sergeant Evans. "Look for individuals in the neighborhood who are out of place or acting suspicious."

To report any suspicious activity or crimes in progress, call the 19th SFS law enforcement desk at 987-3221 or the Crime Stop line at 987-6600.

"The information provided can be very useful, and callers can remain anonymous," said Sergeant Evans. "Remember, real wingmen act."

(Courtesy of the 19th Security Forces Squadron)

Cops crack down on housing vandalism

  • Published
LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. --  A $1,000 reward is being offered for anyone providing information leading to a conviction in a recent rash of housing vandalism and thefts.

Vandals have caused more than $100,000 of damage to newly renovated residences in the past month alone; primarily in the junior enlisted housing area.

Security forces investigators are on the trail of the vandals and need everyone's help in preventing future incidents.

"You don't come into our backyard and commit these crimes," said Maj. Timothy McCarty, 19th Security Forces Squadron commander. "Make no mistake, you will be caught and you will pay the price."

In addition to the vandalism, a spike in thefts of electronic devices such as laptops, gaming systems and televisions has been reported to authorities.

"These crimes have the full attention of base leaders and your assistance is needed," said Senior Master Sgt. Mark Evans, 19th SFS operations superintendent. "Prevention is the first step we all can take."

Sergeant Evans reminds all residents to lock all doors and windows of their homes to help prevent unauthorized access. Some vandalized homes were entered through unlocked doors. Also, ensure outside lights are left on at night to ensure a residence looks occupied.

"These simple steps serve as efficient deterrents for criminals looking for the 'easy' target," said Sergeant Evans. "Also, remind neighbors of these tips to keep your neighborhood safer."

The holiday season is here and many people will be traveling during this time, but security forces patrols will be out protecting the community. There are also preventative measures people can take if they're going to be away from home for an extended period of time.

"Base residents can notify 19th SFS of the dates the home will be vacant and patrols can perform routine checks on the home," said Sergeant Evans. "In addition to these checks, you can also ask neighbors to keep an eye on your home while you're away. For base families who reside off base, the local police departments offer the same routine checks."

Base residents are encouraged to perform Neighborhood Watch duties in their respective housing areas.

"Often vandalism is witnessed by non-participants or the vandals talk openly about their acts," said Sergeant Evans. "Look for individuals in the neighborhood who are out of place or acting suspicious."

To report any suspicious activity or crimes in progress, call the 19th SFS law enforcement desk at 987-3221 or the Crime Stop line at 987-6600.

"The information provided can be very useful, and callers can remain anonymous," said Sergeant Evans. "Remember, real wingmen act."

(Courtesy of the 19th Security Forces Squadron)