Police Step Up Patrols Around Carl Ben Eielson

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Fargo police are stepping up patrols in the Carl Ben Eielson area after a rise in burglary and vehicle thefts in the area.

KVRR’s Brittany Ford did a ride along with police to show what you can do to keep your valuables safe.

Three extra officers will be patrolling the area surrounding Carl Ben Eielson Middle School by squad car and bicycle to catch criminals in the act.

Police say many of the burglaries in this area are due to people simply forgetting to their lock their doors.

“Many of the crimes when it comes to property crimes are one that are crimes of convenience. That really is where we see people who are looking for an opportunity to steal something,” said Lt. Joel Vettel of Fargo Police.

I took a ride with 15–year Fargo patrol officer Chris Bergem, who explained to me what police look for in cases like these.

“Sitting in a car here for a couple of hours, I’m looking for people just sitting in vehicles. Most of the time it’s perfectly innocence, but a lot of times people just don’t pull over on the street and sit in the car for an hour,” said Chris Bergem.

He also stressed how the lack of proper lighting plays a factor in targeted areas.

Fargo police explained to us that the items that are being to stolen are easy to grab and quick to pawn.

Things like power tools, camping and hunting equipment.

People who live in this area hate that crime is on the rise but say they don’t mind taking the extra precautions.

“We always have our house and garage locked that’s just the way I’ve been, because were not home as much but it’s gotten worse and that’s kind of scary to me,” said Donna Vliem.

Keeping doors locked to keep criminals out.

Brittany Ford KVRR News.

Fargo Police also encourage you to report unusual or suspicious activity in your area.