Now that it’s spring, and folks are airing out their homes, the Minneapolis Police Department recommends taking precautions against burglars who might take advantage of an open house.

Third Precinct Lieutenant Brad Sporny has investigated recent burglaries in the Seward neighborhood that have involved such crimes of opportunity. In some instances, potential burglars — sometimes youths — offer to do yard work and then stake out their claim for future opportunities to get in the house and steal things, said Sporny, who noted that, while it is common and good for youth to do this kind of work, homeowners need to be careful.

“People should call 911 right away if they think it seems suspicious,” said Sporny, “not just when it’s an emergency.” Callers may remain anonymous, and the calls can help investigators learn more about burglaries.

According to Sporny, 40 percent of burglaries citywide are unforced (unlocked or open doors). In Seward, unforced entry burglaries make up 33 percent of burglaries from homes, and 50 percent of burglaries are from garages. Home burglaries increase in the spring. “A common practice is airing out the *home,” said Sporny. “People leave their front door open while working in the back yard, and their garage door open while working in the front yard.”

These burglars, whom Sporny refers to as “opportunist thieves,” also watch for people working on their windows and changing screens. Thieves are in and out in 30–40 seconds, stealing small, easy things such as jewelry, purses, wallets and especially laptops.

Sporny recommends the following steps to prevent theft from your home or vehicle:

Don’t hesitate to call 911. “We may not be able to get there fast if something else is a priority,” he said, “but we can still use the information in those cases.”

Beware of youth or adults who ask to come inside for a drink or to call someone. Offer to bring the drink to them or make the call for them, and ask their name. People legitimately selling subscriptions or security systems will have a license from the city.

Theft of yard items — often for scrap metal — such as grill covers, copper fire pits, tools and lawn furniture is a newer area of concern that has increased this spring. Secure these items with cable or put them away.

Form block clubs and look out for your neighbors.* “If you have people who are home during the day or taking walks watching neighbor’s homes, they can call if something looks suspicious,” said Sporny. “We only have 800 cops, and we appreciate citizens helping keep eyes out. Filling out Citizen Impact Statements helps convict criminals that are arrested and charged.

Secure your laptop with a cable.

Don’t leave belongings in your car.

Don’t leave doors and windows open while you are away from them.

Obtain a free Spring Safety book from the 3rd Precinct, available in English and Spanish. The book describes ways of securing homes and taking precautions against “opportunist thieves.”

The 3rd Precinct is located at 3000 Minnehaha Avenue; the phone number is 612-673-5703.

last revised: June 13, 2007

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