Summer time means longer days, more time outdoors, and summer vacation for kids. But time off from school actually increases juvenile crime: too much free time, lack of parental supervision, and warmer temperatures seem to be to blame. These don’t appear to be violent in nature, but rather acts of vandalism and property crimes, like smashed car windows and vehicle robberies, graffiti tagging, and underage drinking.
But some incidents are more serious. Police in Portland, Oregon, broke up two teenage theft rings during last summer that were responsible for $10,000 of stolen goods.
What can you do? First, if you’re a parent, set strong boundaries and rules for your kids. Keep a curfew and know who their friends are. You can help keep you kids from getting themselves into trouble.
Everyone can take basic precautions to protect themselves: keep an eye out and report suspicious crime to local police. Try to park your cars in a garage if possible. And always turn on your monitored alarm system when you are not home and at night. Stay safe and happy summer!
