Police Department Rolls Out New Security Initiative Against Property Theft

The “9 PM” Routine reminds people to lock their cars and homes and to secure their valuables. These easy steps can help citizens protect their belongings.

• By Jessica Davis
• Jan 28, 2019

The Hartford Police Department in Hartford, Al., is introducing a new security initiative that aims to deter criminals from committing property theft. As part of the “9 PM Routine,” the department will send out weekly reminders to citizens about securing their valuables.

“We have very few property crimes, but the ones we have are unsecured valuables and unlocked vehicles,” Hartford Police Chief Annie Ward told WSFA12 News.

On Tuesday, police responded to a report of a stolen 4-wheeler. The owner had left the keys in the vehicle’s ignition.

“I know we should be able to trust people and leave our stuff out,” Ward said. “That’s not the world we live in. You have to take an active role.”

The “9 PM” Routine reminds people to lock their cars and homes and to secure their valuables. These easy steps can help citizens protect their belongings.

“It makes a criminal’s job so much easier if they don’t have to bust out a window,” Hartford Police patrol officer Noah Cobb said.

Cobb responds to theft incidents often, and said he responded to more during his second year on the job, 2018, than he did in 2017.

“I would say it’s definitely increased for me. It’s doubled,” Cobb said. “Ten to 20 would be a good ratio.”

The majority of calls come from people who didn’t lock up their items, including weapons. Police are hoping that people will be more diligent about securing their valuables so there are fewer incidents of stolen guns to investigate.

“If someone steals your iPhone they may steal your personal information, your bank accounts. You can get your credit fixed if someone steals your social security number. If you leave a firearm inside of an unlocked vehicle there’s no telling what hands that firearm could go to,” Cobb said. “It could be used in a robbery or murder and that’s something that you can’t fix or take back. You have to live knowing that you weren’t a responsible firearm owner.”

According to the chief, the department also plans to have extra patrols out and about.