As the holiday season kicks off in Oxford, local law enforcement offer tips for how to take extra precautions to protect their homes from theft and accidents.
Previously during these busy holiday months in Oxford, public officials have encountered home and car thefts. According to a document provided by records specialist Matt Stitzel, this time last year, six cases of burglary were cited for breaking and entering between the months of November and January. These were most common in local resident housing and student apartments near High Street.
In 2023, OPD reported 13 burglary cases including four during the month of December surrounding off-campus student housing buildings.
“There is common knowledge that hundreds of residences will be vacant during MU breaks,” Lieutenant Lara Fening said. “This makes these student neighborhoods ripe to be victimized.”
Due to the holiday break starting soon, Oxford Police recommends filling out a vacant house form with the OPD. This is an annual form available to residents who are looking to obtain more information and guidance on how to keep their home safe during holidays while away.
“This information goes into a database which assists the police by giving resident contact information and other notable details about the property. The police will typically check the exterior of the property,” said Lt. Fening.
For some Oxford residents, issues like theft and break ins are still a major concern. Audrey Smith, who lives in a small family neighborhood in Oxford with her child, said she hasn’t experienced any safety problems during breaks.
“I am concerned because of the uptick in crime that seems to be spreading from the direction of Hamilton,” she said. “I’ve seen many people post lately about car break-ins and property theft… It’s sad to me that it has to be that way, but even in the best neighborhoods bad things can happen.”
“I would also suggest putting up home video cameras,” Lt. Fening said. “They are inexpensive and easy to install. The quality of video is excellent and they can be programmed to give real-time motion detection notifications.”
