ISP Warns Homeowners in Jefferson County of Daytime Burglaries

JEFFERSON COUNTY, IN - Over the past two weeks there have been at least five burglaries that have taken place in Jefferson County during daylight hours.  In one incident the victim was still at home asleep upstairs when the suspect(s) made entry and stole a big screen television. 

The suspects apparently approach homes and peer into windows to see if they can locate anything of value they might want to steal then return later.  At approximately 1:00 a.m. Friday morning, November 7 there was a report of at least two men in the East Prong Road area of Jefferson County approaching homes to look through the windows but they were apparently scared away by barking dogs.

The suspects are possibly driving a white late model, foreign SUV or an unknown color Cadillac.  It is believed the driver is a younger white female.  It is also believed the burglars are dropped off in the area of the home they have targeted and the driver leaves the area and "hides" while the other suspect(s) commit the burglary.  The driver is then contacted, possibly by cell phone or other electronic communication device, to return to pick up the burglar(s).  ISP Detective First Sergeant Stan Tressler commented, "Obviously someone that bold could be pretty dangerous to victims that they encounter."

Residents in the Canaan area of Jefferson County and southern Ripley County are encouraged to report any suspicious activity in their area to the police.  These individuals could be very dangerous so DO NOT ATTEMPT TO APPREHEND THESE INDIVIDUALS. 

When leaving home residents should make sure their doors are locked.  They should also pull down shades or close the curtains and drapes around their windows.  It also helps to leave a radio or television on to give the "appearance" the house is occupied. 

When residents are going to be out of town for an extended period of time, they should contact a neighbor to keep an eye on their property, stop mail and newspaper deliveries, and make sure the house is secure.  Forming neighborhood watch programs is also encouraged.

Indiana State Police and Jefferson County Sheriff's office are working together in an effort to solve these crimes.  Anyone with information should contact either the Indiana State Police at (800) 566-6704 or the Jefferson County Sheriff's office at (812) 265-2648. 

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