BPD offers ‘vacation checks’ for residents

By John Howell
Batesville police ask that city residents be aware that the department’s ongoing program of “vacation checks” is available for people who plan to be out-of-town during the holidays, Deputy Chief Jimmy McCloud said.
The police administrator’s reminder comes following the Sunday evening discovery of the burglary of a West Street home. The resident returned after several days’ absence to discover three televisions  worth $1,660 had been taken, according to BPD Patrolman Zach White’s report. BPD Detective Jeremiah Brown joined the patrolman at the scene for further investigation. The burglar(s) struck some time between 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 23 and Sunday evening, White’s report states.
Residents who want to have their homes checked while they are away should come by the police department where they will be asked to provide information about time of departure and return, what lights will be left on and what vehicles will remain at the home, according to McCloud.
Officers will also ask who might be coming by the home to feed pets or water plants, for instance, and also for contact information officers can use if they discover something amiss.
Patrol officers will check the home at least once a day during the householder’s absence and twice if call volume allows. People enrolled in vacation checks should call the police department and confirm their return, McCloud said.
For additional information, contact the Batesville Police Department at 563-5653.