MCA Meeting Recap: February 2021
Auto Theft: Catalytic Converters
Auto thievery continues to be an issue in the City of Denver and catalytic converter theft is on the rise, particularly among high-rise vehicles, such as trucks and sport utility vehicles (SUV). As catalytic converters contain platinum, which is more valuable than gold, the car parts are in high demand. If you have a truck, SUV, or premium vehicle, please consider parking it off street if that option is available to you.
Auto Theft: Puffers
Another prominent theft is occurring among “puffers,” a euphemism for vehicles that are left idling, particularly on cold days. The City of Denver outlaws puffing for environmental reasons, and the Denver Police Department (DPD) will cite puffers to prevent theft as well.
Auto Theft: Windows
At the last Neighborhood Watch meeting hosted by the DPD, a discussion took place regarding auto theft and break-ins, and the point was made several times to never leave any belongings, even small, relatively insignificant items with in view, even under clothing, a blanket, etc.
Auto Theft: The Club
Imparting guidance unto homeowners, DPD Officers suggested using The Club anti-theft device, a metal bar that attaches to the steering wheel. While the City of Denver is currently out of stock, The Club can be purchased for around $20 at major retailers, e.g., Ace Hardware, Walmart, etc.
Auto Theft: Garages
Many crimes that occur in Denver are crimes of opportunity, and in addition to catalytic converters and puffers, auto theft from open garages are also quite common. While leaving a garage door open may be a simple oversight, it can also be the result of frozen mechanisms, so check your space carefully.
Street Racing Update
A regional street racing task force is working to tamp down illegal behavior that is causing problems from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs, and coordinated efforts are underway to prosecute race organizers. If you’ve heard shots fired, it may be related to these events. Also, fireworks are often reported as gunshots. Please note, arrests have been made, cars have been impounded, and though it may feel like a drop in the bucket, the police are working hard and making progress across the Front Range Region.
Neighborhood Cameras
A question that often comes up on various platforms is, “can cameras be installed throughout the neighborhood to prevent crimes from occurring?” The answer is, yes, but to a limited degree. DPD operates HALO cameras, as well as rapid deployment cameras (RDC), e.g., mobile cameras, such as the ones currently being used to catch the person(s) placing screws on city streets, but it is not financially feasible for the HOA to implement a vast surveillance network. That said, over the past 10 years, officers the number of District 5 Officers has grown from 83 to 143.
Commander’s Meetings
If you wish to become more involved in community crime prevention, please consider joining the online commander’s meetings. The following is a statement from the City of Denver’s website:
“Community group involvement keeps you informed about the specific issues and important events in your neighborhood. Crime prevention in your specific neighborhood can be molded by your active role in the decision-making process often spearheaded by organized neighborhood associations.
The Commander's Meeting is designed for your community. Not only do you hear about the statistics for the entire district, you also get to ask the Commander your specific questions. It’s a great opportunity to meet your local Denver Police officers, while staying informed.
The Commander’s Meetings are held at 6:00 pm on the 3rd Thursday of the odd numbered months at different locations throughout the district. If you would like an ASL interpreter, please email us at 5.Dist@denvergov.org at least three business days prior to the meeting. Meeting reminders are posted on Nextdoor.com.”
Pools, Concerts, and More
Pools should reopen, on a reservation basis, by Memorial Day, though this is subject to change as circumstances evolve. Please note the pool pass price will increase to cover rising wages for lifeguards, whose salaries are increasing from as low at $10/hour to over $15/hour under Denver city law.
Concerts and movies will most likely continue this summer as well, potentially with a reservation system in place, and the Farmer’s Market will most likely return as well in some form.