Vol. 8 No. 51
December 18, 2015 www.matthewsminthillweekly.com
Stealing Christmas by Josh Whitener josh@carolinaweeklynewspapers.com
’Tis the season for holiday shopping, card sending, gift giving and celebrating. But the holidays also are notorious for bringing about something unwanted: a spike in crime. Each year, the number of home break-ins, vehicle break-ins, shoplifting and general theft typically increases during the weeks leading up to Christmas. The hustle and bustle of the season makes it easy for people to forget to secure their belongings – and much more tempting for criminals to wreak havoc on others’ personal property, law enforcement officials say. “A lot of times, there’s a spike (in crime) this time of year,” Officer Tim Aycock, with the Matthews Police Department, said. “(The holiday busyness) is taking the focus off of (criminals), so it’s easier to get lost in the crowd.” The most common crime is theft. Packages left on front porches, Christmas decorations displayed outside and gifts left in plain sight often attract thieves, who have an easier time getting away with crimes. As of Monday, Dec. 14, the Matthews Police Department reported 20 incidents of general property theft in December, according to weekly crime stats submitted to Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly. Mint Hill statistics reported six general property theft incidents in December, as of Tuesday, Dec. 15. Statistics include shoplifting. Theft also is accompanied by other crimes, such as home and vehicle break-ins, which sometimes result in property damage. The Matthews Police Department reported five home break-ins and five vehicle break-ins in December, as of Dec. 14, while Mint Hill statistics documented three home break-ins and two vehicle breakins, as of Dec. 15. Many vehicle break-ins occur when items – particularly those of value – are left in plain sight. People also make themselves more (see Holiday Safety on page 8)
Open house at Reid Matthews residents can get to know the historic Reid House during its annual holiday open house. Page 6
Queen's Grant resolves finances NC Charter School advisory board recommended a seven year extension in light of financial concerns. Page 11
Raven athletes suspended Rocky River’s indoor track and field coach has the team on suspension until grades improve. Page 17
News Briefs 6 | Opinion 7 | Crime Blotter 9 | Education 10 | Faith 13 | Calendar 14 | Sports 16 | Classifieds 19