Yahoo Message Number: 21685 (http://groups.yahoo.com/neo/groups/Country-Coach-Owners/conversations/messages/21685)
HI all,
I was afraid that we either might be overreacting or it might be even worse than I thought because of that inaccurate letter from Beaudry.
Just to clarify this, and be fair, I started digging... I asked the Pima County Sheriff's department for crime statistics at Beaudry, so we could try to get some solid facts. From 2005 to the present, ( the only time period they have statistics for,)there have been 2 burglaries/forced residence, one pickpocketing, 1 auto break-in theft.
They listed some other type incidents that had no relevence here. I also contacted Tucson police because I was not sure who had jurisdiction, and have not heard anything from them as of now.
We do know that Jim Case's motorhome was broken into in December 4,2004 and police filed a report with a case number. This was not included in this count because it was not in the time frame they had.
This is also a FACT that the letter from Beaudry previously posted by Glen G. did not take into account inadvertantly or on purpose, I have no clue.
These are the facts as far as I could determine with authorities not just rumors. So it us up to everyone to decide if they think that is a serious issue or not.
I have been told through someone associated with Beaudry, but no longer employed there that they are taking action by doubling the guards and examining the problem. Beaudry has not contacted me personally as of yet so I don' really know if this is true or what it means. But I hope they are doing so, as that would be appropriate to discourage criminals from thinking it will be "easy pickens."
This was one time when it was possible to get some "accurate information" about crimes in a campground. We will never know what happens in most places. As was reported previously, the nicer parks and resorts that cater to "high end" customers will be more at risk, so it behooves everyone to take precautions and use common sense. Especially one located in a questionable area.
I will just emphasize again, you need to keep drapes closed or use screens so people cannot see in, unless you are advertising what you have. Close and lock windows, put your step in at night or when you are gone. Use a "Beware of Dog" sign and leave the radio or tv on when gone...softly. Use your alarm if it works well, but not everyone pays attention to those anymore. Better to make your coach look too difficult to bother with and uninviting to a criminal. You might introduce yourself to your neighbor and let them know you are NOT having service done in the park so no one should be messing with your coach-- Just like you inform your neighbors at home when you are gone to watch out for your house. Even at that, there are NO guarantees ANYWHERE.
As I said in a previous post about crime prevention, one must emotionally detach from "things" that you might lose in a fire, crime or a natural disaster or put them in a bank box. Stuff happens.
Also, let's get real... any campground so closely associated with an RV SALES dealership is going to be reluctant to restrict the flow of traffic that very comprehensive security might entail and the cost could be prohibitive to do business. As we know... sometimes even the best security "keeps the honest people out." Criminals are opportunists who will find a way if there is ANY vulnerability at any moment. I know this from personal experience.
Common sense and caution... Be aware of your surroundings and make your coach as uninviting as possible to discourage a criminal. Try not to be "easy pickens" ANYWHERE!
Safe travels!
Rosemary
2000 Magna 5798