Burglary alert for Magnolia

In monitoring burglaries and car prowl activity in the Magnolia area, we have noticed an uptick in the number of reports in the last few months.  SPD Crime Prevention Officer Francisco Tello just sent us this alert to make residents aware of what is going on:

Recently there has been some burglary activity on Queen Anne and Magnolia that we would like to alert you about.  Some of the burglaries have been non-forced (walk-ins )where  the burglar has gained entry by an unsecured door or window.  In the forced entry burglaries, the suspect(s) breaks a small window next to a front or rear door and unlocks the door to gain entry.  Once inside the burglar takes laptops, TV?s, checks and miscellaneous items.  It is important to note that all of these burglaries have been in unoccupied houses between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

A person of interest related to this activity is a Caucasian male 30-40 years old 5?7 to 6? tall thin build, scruffy unshaven facial hair.  He wears dark clothing with a backpack.  

In one case, a person matching that description knocked at a residence.   The homeowner did not answer the front door right away and the person seemed startled when the homeowner  did open the door.  The person asked the home owner for directions to Interbay.  The homeowner asked what part of  Interbay and the person could not answer and left right away.  The resident thought that the person acted suspicious.  About 15 minutes later a burglary was reported several blocks away.  The house that was targeted is the only house on the block with shrubbery that obstructs a clear view from the street.

West Precinct detectives are working the cases and you can help by making sure doors and windows are secured at your home.  You should also let your neighbors know to watch your residence if you are going to be away. Trust your instincts and  report any suspicious behaviors or persons to 9-1-1. 

A important note about calling 9-1-1.  When you call, you will be talking to an operator who does not dispatch officers.  Depending on the nature and priority of the call the operator will be relaying information to a dispatcher.  The operator will ask you questions and a dispatcher will be relaying information to the responding officers.  When you call a good description and direction of travel of the fleeing suspect(s) will be of great help to the responding officers.  If there is an alley behind your residence, put your address on the alley side as well, as this will assist responding officers to locate your house. 

You can view recent crime activity on the SPD Crime Reporting Map here.   We took this screen grab of the activity in Magnolia in the last few days. To view police reports you have to subscribe.

Tello also wanted us to remind you that Seattle Night Out is coming up on August 2.  This is a great time to get together with your neighbors and organize against crime.  If you are planning an event you can register here.  SPD will try to have officers visit events as time allows.  You should indicate on your registration if you would like to have an officer stop by.