Let’s discuss apartment complex thieves

Burglars that haunt apartment complexes do what they do because the reward is higher than the risk. They see the reward or benefit for them as greater than the possibility of getting apprehended or caught.

Although you see your apartment community as home, burglars that target apartment complexes view your community as their shopping mall.  They don’t see people living there; they see stuff for the taking. They simply have to decide where and when to take it. If what they want isn’t there, they just move on. The number of apartment just gives them multiple avenues to gain what they want that can be converted into cash. Ideally, the burglary is accomplished without confrontation and without notice. It must be noted that very often, if the burglar is surprised with a confrontation during the burglary, he can become agitated or violent.

What does this typical apartment burglar look like? They are usually guys around eighteen to twenty one years of age. They usually live in close proximity to their target complex, may be a resident there themselves or have a close friend who lives there so they know the area well. Having this familiarity helps them plan the routes for escape if discovered.  They can usually be found walking as opposed to riding around in a car. If you see them in a vehicle, they are probably transporting the merchandise they’ve stolen.

So what is an apartment dweller to do? We need to go back to the first paragraph. Any preventive measures should increase the burglar’s fear of getting caught or the risk he’s willing to take while at the same time lower his idea of what he can gain or what reward he will get for the effort.

Obviously if they think they are being watched, this will raise the risk factor. Some well placed professional cameras tied into to a surveillance system can send the message that they are being watched. Even dummy cameras will effective get this across at a lower cost.

Gated communities are a great deterrent since it limits their main route of escape along with fencing around the perimeter of the property. Also add some signs such as “Alarmed Community” or “Community Watch” or “Multi-Housing Burglar Free Zone” even if these things are not in place. Just having the signs posted prominently will be another deterrent.

Remember, these burglars want to blend in. If they think they are being watched or are viewed suspiciously their risk level rises. Knowledge is power. Know your enemy and prepare accordingly.