Living in Oklahoma, the “Sooner State,” offers a unique blend of urban excitement and rural charm. However, this beautiful state also experiences its fair share of crime. While property crimes are the most frequent, vigilance is essential for ensuring your safety and security. This article highlights suspicious activities and signs that warrant calling the police in Oklahoma. All the information is based on Kfor.com.
Statistics on Crime in Oklahoma
According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI), property crimes reign supreme, with burglary, larceny-theft, and motor vehicle theft topping the charts. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Property Crimes:
- Burglary: Nearly 30,000 burglaries are reported annually across Oklahoma, averaging around 82 incidents per day.
- Larceny-Theft: This category encompasses a wide range of thefts, exceeding 100,000 reported cases each year.
- Motor Vehicle Theft: Over 15,000 vehicles are stolen annually in Oklahoma, translating to roughly 42 thefts every day.
- Violent Crimes: While less common than property crimes, violent crimes pose a significant threat. Oklahoma experiences over 4,000 violent crimes annually, including homicide, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault.
When to Call the Police: Suspicious Activity Around Your Home
It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Here are some red flags that indicate you should call the police in Oklahoma:
- Tampering with Doors and Windows:
- This is a blatant sign of someone trying to gain entry. Be on high alert if you see someone:
- Jiggling doorknobs
- Peeking through windows
- Tampering with locks
- Unfamiliar Individuals Loitering:
- People lingering around your property for extended periods, especially if they seem out of place, could be casing the joint. Trust your gut. If their presence makes you feel uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to report it to the police.
- Strange Symbols or Marks:
- In some cases, criminals use chalk marks or symbols to communicate with each other about potential targets. Here’s what to do if you encounter such markings:
- Don’t touch them!
- Take a clear picture with your phone.
- Contact the police and report the incident. They can investigate whether the symbols have any criminal significance.
- Abandoned Packages or Bags:
- An unattended package or bag left on your porch or near your house could be a bomb or contain illegal substances. Here’s the golden rule:
- Never touch it!
- Maintain a safe distance and call the police immediately. Let them handle the situation.
Case Studies of Crimes in Oklahoma Cities
- Tulsa:
- With a population exceeding 400,000, Tulsa experiences a higher crime rate than the state average. In 2022, Tulsa reported over 6,000 property crimes, including a significant number of burglaries.
- Case Study: A family in Tulsa’s Midtown neighborhood noticed unfamiliar markings on their fence. They wisely reported it to the police. Upon investigation, officers discovered these markings were used by a burglary ring targeting the area. Thankfully, the family’s vigilance and prompt action potentially prevented a break-in.
- Oklahoma City:
- Oklahoma City, the state capital, boasts a population exceeding 680,000. Property crimes are prevalent here as well. According to a 2023 report, over 8,000 larceny-thefts were reported in Oklahoma City.
- Case Study: A resident in Oklahoma City’s Mesta Park neighborhood observed someone lingering around their house late at night. The individual seemed to be checking for unlocked windows. The resident, following their instincts, called the police. The officers apprehended the suspect, who confessed to casing houses in the neighborhood for potential break-ins.
Safety Tips for Oklahoma Residents
- Enhance Outdoor Security:
- Install bright motion-sensor lights around your property. Criminals prefer darkness for their activities.
- Invest in a reliable security system with visible cameras.
- Ensure all windows and doors have sturdy locks.
- Neighborhood Watch Programs:
- Participating in neighborhood watch programs fosters a sense of community and vigilance.
- These programs encourage residents to look out for each other and report suspicious activity.
- Be Mindful of Social Media:
- Avoid posting details about upcoming vacations or absences from home on social media. This can tip off potential criminals.
Recognizing Criminal Activity Beyond Your Home
While vigilance around your house is crucial, criminal activity can unfold elsewhere. Here are some situations that warrant a call to the police:
- Suspicious Activity in Vehicles: Witnessed someone breaking into a car or acting suspiciously around parked vehicles? Report it!
- Public Disturbances: If you encounter a physical altercation, vandalism, or any other disruptive behavior in public spaces, don’t hesitate to contact the police.
- Drug Activity: Witnessing drug deals or paraphernalia being used in public areas is a cause for concern. Report it to the authorities.
Collaborating with Law Enforcement
- Detailed Description: When reporting suspicious activity, provide a detailed description of the individual(s) involved, including:
- Age
- Height
- Build
- Clothing
- Vehicle description (if applicable)
- Note the Time: The time of the incident is crucial for police investigations.
- Remain Calm: While reporting, stay calm and provide clear information to the dispatcher.
Oklahoma Law Enforcement Resources
Here are some valuable resources for Oklahoma residents:
- Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI): https://okcrimestats.osbi.ok.gov/
- Non-Emergency Police Numbers: Most Oklahoma cities have non-emergency numbers for reporting suspicious activity. Look up your local police department’s contact information.
Conclusion
Living in Oklahoma doesn’t have to be a constant state of fear. By familiarizing yourself with the common signs of criminal activity and taking proactive measures to secure your home and surroundings, you can significantly enhance your safety. Remember, a vigilant community is a safer community. Don’t hesitate to call the police if you see something suspicious – it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
