Vandalism Report

Vandalism and Theft in Lake Wildwood

Damaged golf cart

Background
Like other communities, Lake Wildwood is not immune to criminal activities. During the past year, residents of Lake Wildwood have suffered 192 incidents of vandalism and theft. Property damage was wide spread ranging from destruction of thirty-five mailboxes to the serious damage in June of greens and trees on the golf course. In August, seven boats were taken from owners' docks and had equipment stolen or tossed into the lake. In November, eleven golf carts were stolen from the pro shop storage area and damaged or destroyed.

Incidents of vandalism and theft during 2002:

*Description*	*Number*
Property Damage	115
Petty Theft	50
Burglary	9
Grand Theft	14
Hit and Run	4
Total	192

Problem Statement: The increase in Lake Wildwood's population has produced increasing levels of penal code and LW rules violations that are now excessive.

Key Causes: The data and experience of the LW Security Department point to the involvement of young people in the LW community and their friends. Contributing to the problem are parents of offenders who do not support LW Security's efforts to enforce the laws and rules. The data also shows that most of the violations occur at night.

Broken Tee Marker

Carts in pond

Solution Plan:

1. Increase night security patrol. Position description and budget approved for a Security Patrol Officer Assistant. Position filled in January.

2. Enforce curfew rules. Additional night patrol will support this effort. Parents, guardians or sponsors are now fined on the first offence and fines increase with subsequent violations.

3. Increase residents' awareness of the problem and gain support in its reduction.
Monthly communications planned in The Wildwood Independent, Bits and Pieces, Channel 44, and the Lake Wildwood web site.

4. Promote the concept and expansion of "Neighborhood Watch" within LW.
Looking for residents with Neighborhood Watch experience who can help organize and oversee the program.

Cut tree used to damage golf green

Help Needed from Residents:
Watch for monthly communications in Lake Wildwood's various media. We will publicize recent issues, provide information regarding effective observation and reporting of suspicious activity and review pertinent LWA policies and rules. Help form a Neighborhood Watch group in your area. We will provide materials and coordinate the availability of an instructor for your first neighborhood group meeting.

If you can help organize and oversee the program or would like to start a Neighborhood Watch group in your area, please contact the Security office at 432-4434.