THE WOMAN WAS SHOCKED.

For many it’s a necessity for the house — a doggie door. When Fido has a need to stretch his legs, or when nature calls, he can hop through the doggie door himself and do what he needs to do in the backyard.

The Victim: Several residents

The Crime: Burglary

Date: Several incidents in August

Time: Daytime hours

In one case, a woman walked in on the burglar in her kitchen. She described him as a Hispanic male about 5 feet 5 inches tall, sporting a buzz cut and wearing shorts and a T-shirt.

Location: At least three homes near Stonewall Jackson Elementary on Kenwood, Revere and Ellsworth

“If you have a doggie door in your home, please secure it when not in use,” says Darren Dattalo, with the Lower Greenville Neighborhood Association Crime Watch. Dallas Police Sgt. Keitric Jones of the Northeast Patrol Division says he spoke with the investigative unit about break-ins through doggie doors. He says it is not a common occurrence, but it does happen.

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While these doors offer plenty of convenience, they also offer something else — an opportunity for crooks to climb inside and make off with valuables. Several of these types of crimes have taken place recently in the Lower Greenville area, and residents are urged to be on the lookout.

“People should be mindful, though: If their doggie door is large enough to fit a large dog, a human may possibly fit through the doggie door as well,” he says. A locking door or security cover is recommended to deter burglars who might use this method to enter a home.

CRIME NUMBERS |

5323

N. Central Expressway, the Highland Park Animal Hospital, was burglarized in September

3 other businesses were robbed by the same ring of burglars

4 suspects between the ages of 20 and 25 were arrested and charged with engaging in organized criminal activity in the crimes

SOURCE: Dallas Police Department