ALERT: Too all HOA'S and Neighborhood Watch Groups

RE: Daytime Burglaries Code Red

Recently we have seen another increase in daytime residential burglaries where the victims were home but did not answer the burglar’s initial knock at the door, which led to the burglar breaking in through the rear and a confrontation.  Could we send something out to the HOAs, Apt Complexes, and via code reds (particularly in zone 22 south of 50) reminding folks that they don’t have to open the door, but should orally respond so the burglars will know they are home?   Thank you.

Lieutenant Carlos Espinosa

Orange County Sheriff's Office

Uniform Patrol Division

Sector II Patrol

(407) 249-4500

Things to think about - - -

The individual ringing your doorbell could be a utility worker or a legitimate solicitor for a good product. Or, they could be checking to see if anyone is home before a robbery or working as a team to steal from you. The service or product they are selling could even be worthless. Thief, frauds and scams are everywhere.

Safety is everyone’s business. It takes every person in a community to keep us all safe. Here is what you can do to help:

1.       Post a no solicitation sign on your front door.

2.       Tell them through the door you are not interested. Do not let them just ring the bell over and over. Be SURE they know someone is home.

3.       ALWAYS imply someone else is home with you. Never let them know if you are alone.

4.       Ask for a photo ID. If it is a solicitor, ask for their home solicitation license.

5.       If it is a minor, they should have a copy of the supervising adult’s license with them.

6.       If they do not have a photo ID, or anything seems ‘off’, close the door and call 911 right away.

7.       Ask for the name of their organization and the organization’s physical address. If possible, call the organization to confirm they have staff in the area and the name of the person in our neighborhood.

8.       No matter what, do NOT let anyone in your home you do not know, have not requested service from or who has no photo ID.

9.       Do NOT sign anything, give them personal information or cash.

10.   Tell them the neighborhood does not allow solicitation.

11.   If it is a product or service you want, you can read the forms, check it out and mail it to the company after you have a chance to review the details.

12.   If their story, explanations or behavior is the least bit unnerving, call 911.

Deputy Carlos Jimenez

Crime Prevention Specialist (CPTEDP)

Uniform Patrol Support Sector 2

Orange County Sheriffs Office

10244 E. Colonial Dr.

Orlando, FL. 32817

Office:  407-249-4508

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www.ocso.com