Burglar drills lock, enters home

Copyright © 2009
Gallup Independent
By Helen Davis
Cibola County Bureau

MILAN — Describing a recent case where a home was broken into in broad daylight, the Cibola County Sheriff’s Department issued a reminder to home owners to confirm arrangements with security services.

On Jan. 1 a home just north of the railroad tracks on N.M. Highway 605 was broken into shortly after noon and ransacked before police arrived. The owner had recently left town for a vacation and left the security alarm set.

Lt. Harry Hall said an unknown suspect drilled out a dead bolt lock in the back of the home and kicked in the door, triggering the alarm system. Hall said it was 20 minutes before police were notified, plus another 10 minutes before responding officers arrived on the scene, giving the suspect a half hour to go through several rooms, opening closets and dresser drawers.

Nothing has been reported stolen.

The CCSD asks homeowners, renters and businesses to verify their correct address, which 911 uses in responding to calls, with their security and alarm providers. Citizens should make sure their security service will call the nearest police right away when an alarm is triggered.
Hall is handling the case. Refer to case number 09-0045.

Anyone with information about the break-in should contact the Cibola County Sheriff’s Department at (505) 287-9476 for 24-hour dispatch, or (505) 876-5485 for fax. To remain anonymous, contact The Cibola County Crime Stoppers at 287 -8400, you may be eligible for a reward.