EC police seeking clues as home burglary spree hits city
By BRENDA SOMMER bsommer@leader-news.com

A number of residential burglaries on the northwest side of town, at all hours, have prompted authorities to issue a reward for information on the crimes.

The break-ins are focused in the El Campo High School/Norris Street area, but stretch throughout the entire neighborhood. Cases since January have occurred on West Norris, East Correll, Roberts, College, Willis and South streets and Avenue B, although more have been reported, said Cindy Howell, El Campo police officer and coordinator for West Wharton County Crime Stoppers.

The thieves have usually broken into the homes through a window, by kicking in a door or through an unlocked door, according to police reports.

From the pattern of the crimes, and the items taken, there's a chance the burglar or burglars are from the area, and they could be young.

In one case, a burglar ran off when spotted, and apparently was on foot and not using a vehicle. Thieves have taken small, portable electronics, game consoles and games, cash, jewelry and in one case, a dog.

"It happens while the residents are out, like someone's watching," Howell said. "What they're doing is, they know when people are out of town for a few days. Or they wait until someone's left on an errand."

Crime Stoppers will pay a reward for information on the crimes, and anyone with tips can remain anonymous and still receive the reward.

In the meantime, Howell recommends people be especially vigilant, and work together to ward off the crimes, or catch the burglars.

"If people are leaving town, they might let the police department know," Howell said. "We do special patrols for residences and businesses. Just call the department at 543-5311 and let the dispatcher know when you'll leave town and when you'll return."

She also suggested residents leave any outside lights they have on.

"If they don't have any outside lighting, they might look into getting some," she said. "It seems to deter people from breaking in."

She also said working with neighbors can help end the rash of burglaries.

"Let a trusted neighbor know you'll be out of town, in case they see vehicles at your house, or people walking around your home," she said.

Howell also said to remember the city has a curfew for minors.

"If you see a youth out late at night, remember we do have a curfew, and call police," she said.

West Wharton County Crime Stoppers will pay cash rewards for information leading to the arrest and grand jury indictment of persons charged with felonies, including those responsible for the northwest neighborhood burglaries.

Anyone with information about any crime is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 543-8477, or to call El Campo Police at 543- 5311 and ask to speak to a detective.