Hubbard residents learn of spike in burglaries

By DANNY RESTIVO

drestivo@vindy.com

HUBBARD

Nearly two weeks ago, Pauline Fabian returned to her Doris Drive home and found it burglarized.

“It was a like a tornado had gone through my bedroom,” she said.

While the burglars took only some vintage coins, the 53-year Hubbard resident said the experience left her shaken.

On Tuesday night, Fabian joined 30 other residents at the public library for the Hubbard block-watch meeting.

Attendees listened to police and concerned citizens speak about a recent spike in burglaries. Police Sgt. Howard Haynie urged residents to be vigilant in their neighborhoods, and contact police if they see anything suspicious.

“Most of our success is just from people picking up the phone and calling us,” Haynie said.

Police can’t be everywhere at once, but having a group of watchful neighbors who call police allows law enforcement to arrest burglars in the act, he said.

“It’s a force multiplier for us,” he added.

The city reported 12 incidents of burglary and breaking-and-entering in September, said Haynie.

The recent uptick in crime is unusual for the city, he said, but he believes the influx can be linked to heroin use.

Chris Gergel, president of the block watch, said that getting to know your neighbors is the first step in ensuring a safe neighborhood for your family.

“Share numbers with your neighbors, be the eyes and ears and get involved with them,” she said.

Gergel also wanted residents to understand they can keep Hubbard safe by reporting suspicious activity, which will send a strong message to criminals,

“We’re a close-knit community. We stand together, and we stand strong,” she said.

Fabian said she bought two deadbolt locks for her front door after the burglary, and the experience has made her and her neighbors more vigilant.

“We all look out for each other now,” she said.