What are the crime rates in Snohomish County, and our nation in general, being caused by?

There has been a significant increase in break-ins and thefts in Snohomish County recently. At least three burglaries occurred in the south county last week. In one incident someone attempted to break in by kicking in the back door, while the resident and her three small children were at home. There have also been reported thefts of packages at front doors, and mailbox units being stolen or vandalized.

We have to ask ourselves “why?” Is it our depressed economy? Could it be that our children are not being taught and shown proper morals and values? Or perhaps is it the decline of social values? Drugs, profanity, pornography and the desire for self-centered, instant gratification are so prevalent today, leading people down a slippery slope in to a life of crime.

Making a difference starts with each individual, working to impact and improve their life, their family’s lives, and that of others.

One way to deter crime is to join your neighborhood watch. The Snohomish County Sheriff’s Office reports, “Crime prevention is a shared responsibility. By getting organized and cooperating with your neighbors you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim and create a greater sense of security in your neighborhood.”

For information on neighborhood watch programs, visit sheriff.snoco.org/Documents/Homesecurity.pdf.

Trevor Bickford

Troop 91

Snohomish