Late night car thefts become the new normal in Franklin

The summer of 2017 is likely to be known for some in Franklin as one where their personal spaces have been violated, and for some, a piece of their livelihood taken from them. It's becoming almost a daily ritual on various Facebook groups on whose home was hit by thieves, and whose car was broken into or stolen.

Making matters worse, residents are feeling a growing disconnect from the Franklin Police Department, who is working tirelessly to combat the problem with more frequent patrols and a greater presence on the streets at night. The other night, a resident posted on Franklin's Neighborhood Watch Facebook group that after speaking with Police Chief Rick Oliva, he confirmed an uptick in crime for Franklin and encouraged residents to follow some basic measures to better protect your belongings, homes and vehicles.

An issue that keeps reappearing upon reading a theft or vehicle being stolen is the homeowner or vehicle owner left their homes or cars unlocked, granting easy access to the perpetrator. On top of combating this crime wave, residents need to combat the mentality that living in a suburb equals living free and open. The idea of a suburb keeping away the crimes of a bigger city needs to come to an end, and fast. Keeping doors locked and keys or other valuables hidden will help keep your belongings yours.

Unfortunately, the above doesn't resolve all the thefts or break-ins, for in some cases the thieves still smash windows or force their way into homes. To put some minds at ease, or to assist in catching the criminals, there are many security systems available for residents to purchase. On other neighborhood apps, Milwaukee neighborhoods are banding together and working with representatives of security systems, such as Ring, to demonstrate how the products help protect your home and offer a discounted rate based on how many in the neighborhood participate. Could Franklin subdivisions do something similar? Perhaps.

As summer winds down, let's all try to be more vigilant and be aware of our surroundings. If someone sees anything suspicious, notify the police.