Around the holiday season, police say they see more break-ins than normal. The Sebastian County Sheriff’s Office warns this time of year sees an upturn in burglaries and thefts, as criminals know their victims have been Christmas shopping.
The Vaughn family is one of many across the area looking forward to the holidays. They even have gifts open for display through their front window. However, deputies with the Sheriff’s Office said that may not be a good idea.
"I definitely think we will reconsider what we are doing, knowing you can see the gifts from the road,” said homeowner Heather Vaughn. “We will make an effort to not do that anymore."
She said her son is excited that Christmas is only about a week away.
“Like really excited, like, I`d jump out of my pajamas,” said her son Grayson Vaughn.
Deputies said expensive holiday gifts need to be locked away and out of sight.
Nine-year-old Grayson said he couldn’t imagine if his presents were stolen.
“I`d sink down to the ground melting, and stay there for the rest of my life, until the presents came back,” he said.
If residents are keeping an eye on their neighbor`s house while they are gone and you see someone or a vehicle that does not belong, authorities said they should not hesitate to call 911.
Social media can even open the door for a home burglary.
"I have a Facebook page,” Vaughn said. “I most certainly do not post on there when we are traveling or going out of town.”
Sheriff's deputies also said people should beware of scams this time of year. Criminals know that those looking forward to the holidays are in a giving mood.
The Sheriff’s Office has extra officers on patrol this time of the year, deputies said.
