Police investigate string of home break-ins in Colonial Heights - NBC12 - WWBT - Richmond, VA News On Your Side

Police investigate string of home break-ins in Colonial Heights

By Nicole Bell - bio | email
Posted by Terry Alexander - email

COLONIAL HEIGHTS, VA (WWBT) – A crime alert out of Colonial Heights where police are investigating a string of home break-ins. The crimes are happening in broad daylight when residents are not home.

Police say the thieves are kicking down front and back doors to get inside the homes. They've gotten away with money, jewelry and electronics.

The criminals used a tool to pry their way into John Vish's side door. Vish says his sense of security is shattered. He's lived in his home on Macarthur Avenue for 36 years with no problems.

"It's hard to understand why people just want to go in people's houses and fool around and steal stuff," said Vish.

The thieves took off with items that belong to his wife, Phyllis.

"They took all of my jewelry out of three boxes, every bit of it," said Phyllis Vish.

The Vish family isn't alone. Police say there have been 14 home break-ins within the last month. The city usually averages about three break-ins a month. Police say it's likely many of the crimes are related.

Over on Charlotte Avenue, a home belonging to Kathie Dabney's neighbor was broken into.

"Police really need to patrol the area more often," said Dabney.

Dabney says her street is normally quiet and peaceful. Now, she's encouraging folks to look out for one another.

"I think the neighbors should stay in better contact with each other -- maybe watch each other's house -- those who are at home and call when they see something that looks suspicious, " said Dabney.

Back on Macarthur Avenue, Vish says he's thinking about investing in a home security system. He hopes whoever's responsible for breaking into his home is taken off the streets soon.

If you have any information on any of these crimes contact Colonial Heights Police.

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