Burglars Caught, Despite Homeowner Not Arming Alarm System

When I entered the alarm industry in 1989, less than 15% of US homes had monitored alarm systems. Today that number is approaching 25%, but slowly. There are several reasons why more people have not chosen this proven and affordable way to protect their homes and families, but with crime up in many areas, and with alarm systems doing more and costing less, the tide is turning. But in this report from Hanover County, VA, one homeowner learned the hard way that it’s not enough just to have an alarm system: you also have to use it!

A big break has occurred after a rash of home burglaries in Hanover County. Two men and a woman are now in custody. Authorities confirmed at least six homes were hit - all during the day: three in the town of Ashland, three in the County. One couple lost about $40,000 worth of gold jewelry, including some sentimental pieces they may never get back. The man and his wife didn't know anyone had been in their home, until she went to accessorize. Truman Parmele said he feels violated after strangers rummaged through his house when he was out of town.

What the Burglars Stole

"It was a good job. They cleaned it out pretty good," said Parmele. Gold necklaces, bracelets, rings, earrings all stolen, along with a watch close to his heart. "An antique watch - we couldn't find it. Had been in the family 100 years. It was my grandfather's," said Parmele. Parmele said his alarm wasn't on the day the suspects came in through his kitchen window.

Now that’s a hard way to learn a lesson. Research has shown that a home protected by a monitored alarm system is only one third as likely to be targeted as the unprotected home next door – but you do need to arm your system for it to be effective. Here are two handy links on this important topic: the first covers how to arm your alarm system, and the second describes the kind of next-generation features available now, such as the ability to arm your home alarm from anywhere – even with a free app on your smart phone! That’s the kind of interactive control being offered by today’s best alarm companies. You can even get remote video and home automation services. If you’ve been waiting home security that does more – and I mean a lot more – then it’s time to see what’s available.

Good Solid Police Work

The trio of suspects is accused of hitting at least six homes between March and April. Authorities said detectives in Ashland and Hanover started comparing notes when a lead developed within the last week. "We had some information from one of the victims when he discovered his residence had been broken into. He had an idea of who may have been involved in this," said Lt. James Shelhorse with Ashland Police. Ashland authorities said the crime spree started on N. Snead Street. From there, authorities said the suspects moved north and west in rural Hanover. "There's a good chance they were watching to make sure nobody was there," said Shelhorse.

What You Can Do

"Make sure you keep your neighbors aware if you're going out of town, so they can keep an eye on your house. Make sure police know," said Shelhorse.

And of course, be sure to check out FrontPoint’s Top 10 Home Security Tips to see the full range of steps you can take.

Being wise to the ways of the burglar is important – as is anything that increases your safety, security, and peace of mind. We’re the leader in wireless home security, and the #1 ranked alarm company in the US – and we earned that spot with technology, pricing, and customer satisfaction that leaves the others far behind. These days, you even have to worry about some of the alarm salesmen coming to your door! That’s why smart shoppers choose FrontPoint: safer, smarter, simpler, more affordable, and virtually impossible to defeat. Just read the reviews, and you’ll want a FrontPoint system too - and remember you can arm it from your iPhone.