I would like to start by wishing every resident a Happy New Year and I am looking forward to
another great year at PGA National. While the final community statistics have not been
compiled (as of this writing), every indication is that major residential crime is down. To
date, PGA National has experienced eight home burglaries, down four from last year (I
am knocking on wood as I type).
The evening gate closure, which began on April 15, 2008, has given security the
opportunity to strengthen the security posture of PGA National. For the last several
months, the gate officers have been hard at work monitoring the resident bar code lane, in
attempt to stop unauthorized vehicles from using that lane. This serves two purposes: to
make your entry as a resident as smooth as possible, and to let others know we are
watching.
Just recently, I received a bulletin from The Palm Beach Gardens Police Department. A
group of burglary suspects are working the immediate area and as far south as Boca
Raton. Their method of operation is eerily similar to that of the “Gypsy Burglary
Suspects” which plagued PGA National back in 2001 – 2002.
These suspects generally strike during the afternoon hours. The men of the group will
drive the vehicle and act as a look out, while their female counterparts break into the
homes. Usually the females will go to the rear of a home and use a screwdriver to shatter
the sliding glass door. They go to the master bedroom / bath and take jewelry and cash.
In most cases, the female will knock on the front door before going to the back of the
home. They do this to ensure the house is empty. If a resident does come to the door the
female will make up some excuse (i.e. I’m lost, I have the wrong address, etc.). If you
encounter a situation like this, immediately report it to security.
As a PGA National resident, you must be ever vigilant. Whenever you leave your home
– no matter for how long – always lock yours doors and set your alarm. You may also
want to contact your alarm provider and inquire about upgrades to your system such as
motion detectors and glass break sensors.
I was the director of security back in 2001 – 2002, and I can say from first hand
experience, these types of criminals can do a lot of damage in a very short time. While
the true number of homes burglarized by them could never be discerned, I would venture
a guess of 60 plus.
On January 26, 2002, Wackenhut was instrumental in the apprehension of two Gypsy
Burglary Suspects. While in route to an alarm, Captain Art Dickens spotted the suspects
exiting Grand Cay. Our dispatcher contacted Palm Beach Gardens Police and the two
suspects were apprehended at Shoppes on the Green. If that homeowner had chosen not
to set his alarm that day, it would have been just another successful home burglary.
In closing, my staff and I look would like to thank you for your continued support and we
look forward to another successful year at PGA National.