Dear HAR Members:
We have received reports about two burglaries that took place in the last few days during open houses. The first one occurred last Thursday in the close-in Memorial area, while the second one took place during the weekend in West University Place. In both instances, jewelry was stolen from the homes. Both burglaries involved a white male in his 50s with short gray hair claiming to be from Dallas. Also, in both cases, the suspected perpetrator was parked in a car outside the home before the open house began, when the agent arrived. In one case, the alleged thief was caught in the act and pushed the agent out of the way to escape.
Please remind your sellers that valuables should be locked in a safe or otherwise secured during open houses and showings. Also, be extra careful when holding open houses. Burglars may be working alone or with others. Have your phone with you, and call for help immediately if suspicious persons are present. Your personal safety is our primary concern.
Below is a Composite Sketch courtesy of IQ Biometrix, Inc.
Thank you, and please let us know if you hear of any similar incidents so we may help inform your fellow REALTORS® to try to keep you and your clients safe.
Wayne A. Stroman
HAR Chairman
