Community Alert: What Makes a Vehicle Suspicious?

From J.A. Hightower

Have you ever wondered if you should dial 911 on a vehicle that seems out of place in your community? Well maybe this will help. I've attached a couple of questions to ask yourself when you think a vehicle maybe suspicious.

Please pass this along to your neighbors, family and friends.

Be Aware - Be Safe,
J.A. Hightower
Public Education Specialist
DeKalb Police - Center Precinct
1960 W. Exchange Place, Tucker, Ga. 30084
770-724-7616 ofc – 770-724-7605 fax
jahighto@co.dekalb.ga.us

Provided by: DeKalb County Police Department to Promote Crime Awareness

What makes a vehicle a “Suspicious Vehicle?”
In recent days, the question of “what makes a vehicle suspicious” has been asked. To help you should first ask yourself the following questions:
• Do I recognize the vehicle parked in my neighbors’ driveway?
o If you answer “NO,” that vehicle is suspicious – Dial 911
o If you answer “YES,” that vehicle is not suspicious
• Do I recognize this vehicle that is riding through the community slowly?
o If you answer “NO,” that vehicle is suspicious – Dial 911
o If you answer “YES,” then it is not suspicious
• While my neighbor is at work, there is an unmarked work-type van at their house. Has my neighbor informed me of any repairs being completed on their home?
o If you answer “NO,” that vehicle is suspicious – Dial 911
o If you answer “YES,” then it is not suspicious
• While my neighbor is at work, a moving van/truck is backed in their driveway. Has my neighbor informed me of their intent to move?
o If you answer “NO,” that vehicle is suspicious – Dial 911
o If you answer “YES,” then it is not suspicious

If you answered NO to any of the above questions, please do not hesitate to dial 911 and report what you are witnessing.
Ways to possibly avoid a neighbor being victimized:
• Call 911 to report any suspicious persons/vehicles parked or circling your community
• It is recommended that you DO NOT confront that person
• Do not put yourself in harms way, always observe from a safe distance
• Continue to communicate through your Neighborhood Watch program to keep other alert to suspicious activity

*** Remember if you don’t inform the Police, the Police don’t know what’s happening in your neighborhood. ***
Center Precinct – Crime Awareness/Prevention
DeKalb County Police Department, 1960 W. Exchange Pl., Tucker, GA 30084