For residents of the North Chico neighborhoods lining Garner Lane, crime was never a big issue until about a year ago. "They had a break in where someone came through a doggie door, they've had snatch and runs where garages have been open, and people just run in, and steal things" according to resident Kim Cross. David Rader added "there have been a lot of break-ins, and the neighborhood is kinda pulling together to watch everybody."
It didn't take residents long to realize there was an escalating problems of crime in the area, and that's when they decided to band together, and be more proactive with the problem. "We have a wonderful little thing we call our email grape vine. When anything occurs everyone in this neighborhood knows about it," according to Cross.
But the effort doesn't stop there. Many residents like Cross have hit the streets to monitor suspicious vehicles. "We are looking out for strange cars in the neighborhood. I myself have taken photographs of several cars, or trucks in the neighborhood that I'm not familiar with."
Some like Rader have also taken extra measures to make sure they don't become a victim. "We put in motion detectors, the alarm system has been updated, and of course the dogs always help, too."
Kathy Brines moved into one of the neighborhoods from San Jose in December, and says the connection between residents is unlike anything she's ever seen. "I didn't have that in the Bay Area where we were from. We immediately felt like we were part of the community. We were invited to things. People were watching out for us."
And Cross says they will continue to watch out for one another. "It's not a comfortable thing to feel like you have to be vigilant, and watch out for your neighbors so much. But we'll do what needs to be done to keep our neighborhood safe."
