Laptop computers stolen

The Jamestown Police Department wants island residents to be aware of an ongoing investigation concerning the theft of four laptop computers from island homes.

According to acting detective Derek Carlino, three of the computers were stolen in broad daylight in the downtown area from homes with unlocked doors. Two of the homes were entered through unlocked front doors. The fourth computer was the only one stolen by forced entry through a back door that was kicked in.

Detective Carlino and Police Chief Thomas Tighe want to remind all Jamestown residents that Jamestown is susceptible to crime just like anywhere else, and leaving doors and windows unlocked when nobody is at home is an invitation for thieves to come and go at will. They strongly recommend that island residents lock all doors and windows when nobody is at home. They also suggest keeping items like laptop computers and other electronic gear out of view from the outside.

The police recommend closing the drapes and blinds, locking the doors and windows, and if possible, putting all valuables away in a locked safe, closet, or storage area that is not easily accessed or moved.

Write down the brand, model, and serial number of all electronic equipment and store the information in a safe place that is easily accessible and readily available in case it is needed. Whenever a new piece of equipment is purchased, keep the receipt with the other pertinent information.

If anyone witnesses suspicious behavior, or strangers entering and leaving a neighbor's house when nobody is at home, call the police immediately.

If possible, write down a detailed description of what was witnessed. Get the license number and model of any vehicle or vehicles the suspicious people are driving, the time of day they were seen and dial 911 or 423-1212 so the police can take immediate action.

The police ask that anyone having information that may lead to the arrest of the thieves responsible for the stolen laptops step forward to make an anonymous report. Sometimes the smallest clue can be the information needed to solve a crime, police said.