Police Warn Jamaica Plain Residents to Lock Windows to Discourage Summer Break-ins

[Editor's note: The following is a message from , commander of the Boston Police District E-13, which patrols JP.]

Although, District E-13 has not seen an increase in break-ins, officers have responded to a number of incidents where a culprit breaks into the homes through open/unlocked windows.  These types of incidents are common during warmer weather.

Consequently, Captain Paul Russell would like to advise all residents to close and lock all windows and doors and to be on a look out for suspicious people in their neighbors’ backyards, and if seen, to call 911 and summon police to investigate. 

Moreover, we are asking you to help us prevent further victimization by observing our “Protect your Home” tips outlined below.  Also, you may add and distribute along any others that you may think of.

Thank you for your assistance.

• Always close and lock your doors when you are out.
• Secure glass sliding doors with either commercially available locks or a wooden dowel or broomstick in the track to jam it.
• Always close and lock your windows when you are out.  Windows Screens can easily be cut or removed so do not rely on them for security when you are out or at night.
• Keep all items of value away from window view.
• Air conditioners in windows are easily pushed in by criminals to gain access into homes.  Make sure your air conditioners are secured and locked into place.
• Do not leave stackable items such as crates, ladders, lawn chairs or tables, etc., outside and near your house.  Criminals can use them to gain access to your home.
• Do not hide keys in mailboxes, planters, or under doormats.  Give an extra key to a trusted neighbor instead.
• Trim your shrubbery that hides doors or windows.  Cut tree limbs that might assist a thief to climb into a window.
• Turn on outside lights after dark to illuminate porches, entrances and yards, front and back.  Lights on timers or motion detectors deter thieves and other criminals.
• Keep your yard well maintained.  Store ladders and tools inside your LOCKED garage, basement or storage shed when you’re not using them.
• Keep a complete up to date inventory of your personal property (photo or videotape) including serial or owner applied numbers.
• Put lights and a radio on timers to create the illusion that someone is home when you are away.  Leave shades in normal positions.  Stop mail delivery or ask a neighbor to take them in.

For more information, contact the Community Service Office at 617-343-5624.

Keep up the appearance of your neighborhood.  Broken street-lights, abandoned cars, vacant buildings, graffiti, litter and run down areas attract crime – please report them to the Mayor’s Office at 617-635-4500.