Posted by R.G. Angel

Dear Officer Michelle,

I like to sleep with the windows slightly open in my room to allow fresh air in when I am sleeping. However, on garbage and recycle collection nights, I have been woken by the sounds of someone going through the recycle cans and collecting the cans and glass bottles.

I am wondering if there is someone I can call to report this or someway to have this issue looked into to.

Thanks,
~Angel

Dear R.G. Angel,

This is a common problem. If you live in the city limits, you can call the Police Department’s non-emergency number at 264-5471 and request an officer be dispatched. There is an ordinance that makes it illegal to rummage through recyclables. If you live in the county, call 874-5115 for their non-emergency number. Let the dispatcher know what is occurring. Try to get a description of the subject, whether he/she is on foot or riding a bike, etc. The responding officer will stop and contact the subject. Some of the people are harmless and are only there to collect your recyclables to make money. There are others, however, who use the opportunity to look further onto your porch, in your vehicles and anywhere else an opportunity presents itself.

On a side note, be mindful of open windows. If it is the window in your room, that is one thing, but I would caution you about leaving other windows in your house open while you are sleeping. We have had cases of “cat burglars” who could make their way into homes through an open window. There are window locks you can install that allow you to open your windows a few inches so that you can still enjoy the delta breezes.

Take care,

Officer Michelle