Greetings Net,
The following is based on the information provided by our net point of contact in Wellington Station. It is a good heads up to all residents city-wide, especially those living near abandoned properties. Fellow residents are to be commended for their vigilance and prompt reporting of the incident to the Rockledge Police Department.
Incident (My thanks to SM for the information):
Residents noted a gathering of young people outside an abandoned home in their neighborhood late last night. There were lights on outside as well as in the interior of the home. This house has been empty for over a year now. The Rockledge Police Department was called, the dispatcher took down the information and alerted the patrols; they responded very promptly. As the Police Officers entered the residence 20 to 25 people scattered out of the back of the house and ran in numerous directions. Some of them lingered around the corner by their vehicles. The police detained a number of individuals in the house and also escorted some back to the house.
Apparently the individuals identified the house as being abandoned and a suitable place to have a party. Somehow the individuals gained access to the house, probably through the rear. This sort of use of vacant properties by juveniles is not unique.
The Rockledge Police Department did an outstanding job of responding quickly. I have a greater level of comfort knowing that they are just a phone call and minutes away. Please pass on our appreciation to this wonderful group of people that keep us safe! SM
Net, there are two positive points that we can ascertain from this report:
1- That Wellington Station has vigilant neighbors that are active in the Neighborhood Watch Program.
2- That we have a top notch police department that responds immediately to our calls.
This is not the first such incident that I have been made aware of. Ashwood Lakes had a recent incident in which juveniles were apprehended in the morning by the Rockledge Police Department after they had gained access to a vacant house and were using it to hang out in.
Please be vigilant, be involved and be safe,
Network Administrator