SJPD gives summer safety tips as the crime rate spikes up

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Summer months are widely known for being the season of vacation, outdoor fun, sunshine and swimming pools, but they also bring a spike in crime rates.  

The crime increase during the summer tends to be a result of scorching heat and people spending more time outside, which can bring more opportunities for a crime to occur.

In situations like this, it is imperative to be cautious about your surroundings and the people around you.

“Anytime you leave property unattended, whether that be in your yard or your vehicle, make sure to secure it and lock your belongings up," Sergeant Jeremy Peters, with the St. Joseph Police Department, said.  

Due to the lower number of call volumes from the community or residents wanting to remain at home because of colder weather, crime rates tend to decrease in the winter months.  

“When we get reports, we investigate them as thoroughly as possible, but we can’t prevent everything,” Peter said.    

Recently, some St. Joseph residents have posted missing items on social media. One of those residents is Kailey Huff.

“The morning of the 5th of July, I noticed our front gate was open," said Huff. "I noticed that our bike was missing. We had to contact the police department because we did not know where it went."

Although Huff was able to secure the bike with the help of the police department and her neighbors, it was distressing to experience an incident such as this.   

“It was pretty fast paced. The officer I had spoken to seemed to know who I was talking about and was able to locate it very quickly,” Huff said.   

Huff recommends putting a lock on personal property and not leaving anything unattended.

For stolen items, residents can contact SJPD's non-emergency line at (816) 271-4702.