Illicit drug use

Illicit drug use in our community is a problem we all face, regardless of race, ethnicity or socio-economic status. This is a problem we must confront together. As you may or may not know, the use of drugs, especially by the youth has increased significantly. We must come together as a team and work hard to educate our children on the inherent dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. Our department is fully committed to the war on drugs; however police cannot be effective without good parents and good citizens who are willing to get involved in the ever increasing epidemic of substance abuse. It is our belief that the first step in getting involved is education.

The first steps to combating illegal drugs abuse, is to know what controlled substances are, be aware of the physiological effects of controlled substances, the appearance of these drugs, the paraphernalia associated with them, and suspicious activities to look for in your neighborhood. A drug is any substance that alters the body or mind, or has a tendency to be abused. Drugs range from marijuana and heroin to mushrooms and dust off. Drugs have many different physical effects. Certain drugs such as methamphetamine and cocaine raise the users blood pressure and pulse, while others do just the opposite. Some make a person paranoid and others are relaxing. Changes in facial features, skin color, temperature, heart rate, and muscle tone can be indicative of drug use. Changes in demeanor should also be considered as signs of possible substance abuse.

Drugs come in may shapes and sizes ranging from pills of all sizes. Drugs can be a powder, a pill, a liquid and even a gas. Stop and think a moment and ask yourself, "Does any one really need fifty boxes of Sudafed or twenty cans of whipped cream?"

Drug Types

Click on a link below to learn more about each type of drug.

Marijuana

Cocaine

Crack

Methamphetamine

Ecstacy (MDMA)

Herion

PCP

LSD

Stimulants

Depressants

Hallucinogens

Tobacco

Alcohol

GHB

Inhalants

OxyContin

Hydrocodone

DXM (Dextromethorphan)

Steroids

Need some more information on drugs you do not see listed above, click here to go the DEA website.

 Click on the Logo and go directly to D.A.R.E.

How do I know if a drug house is active in my neighborhood?

Suspicious activities that are associated with drug use and trafficking include:

• Neighbors who do not have full time jobs, however have expensive clothing, vehicles, and recreational items
• Irregular traffic
• Vehicles that pull up to residences for short periods of time and any time of the day or night (may have obscured or missing license plates)
• Large numbers of short time visitors at any time of the day or night
• Cars speeding up and down the street, honking or “burning rubber” as they speed away
• Increase in litter such as used syringes, plastic bags, glass pipes, bottles, trash, stacks of used matches, graffiti
• Increase in crimes like vehicle burglaries, residential burglaries, robbery, vandalism, and assault
• Increase in noise such as loud voices, fights, gun fire, and loud radios, especially at night
• Irregular smells or chemical odors (i.e. ammonia, acetone, acid, solvents, etc.)
• Activity late at night
• Extreme security measures like surveillance cameras, windows that are covered allowing no light to enter, barricading doors or windows, fencing, guard dogs, lookouts, etc.
• Little property maintenance (unkempt yard)
• Disconnecting fire alarms
• Bright interior lights (high-intensity 1000-watt lamps are commonly used in the production of methamphetamine and marijuana)
• Constant humming noises (such as a fan)
• If someone seems out of place it most likely is

If you suspect drug activity in your neighborhood contact our department's tip line (801) 253-6300 or our Narcotics Division at (801) 254-4708.

For more information, please click a link below:

• Parents Empowered.org
• Parents – The Anti-Drug
• Just Think Twice
• Street Drugs
• Stop Drugs.org
• Drug Enforcement Agency
• Teens Health
• Drug Street/Slang Names  

Abuse, Addiction, Getting Help

          The following excerpt is from Teens Health.  Please visit their website by clicking the link above.

Jason's life is beginning to unravel. His grades have slipped, he's moody, he doesn't talk to his friends, and he has stopped showing up for practice. Jason's friends know he has been experimenting with drugs and now they're worried he has become addicted.

Defining an addiction is tricky, and knowing how to handle one is even harder.

What Are Substance Abuse and Addiction?

The difference between substance abuse and addiction is very slight. Substance abuse means using an illegal substance or using a legal substance in the wrong way. Addiction begins as abuse, or using a substance like marijuana or cocaine. You can abuse a drug (or alcohol) without having an addiction. For example, just because Sara smoked weed a few times doesn't mean that she has an addiction, but it does mean that she's abusing a drug — and that could lead to an addiction.

People can get addicted to all sorts of substances. When we think of addiction, we usually think of alcohol or illegal drugs. But people become addicted to medications, cigarettes, even glue! And some substances are more addictive than others: Drugs like crack or heroin are so addictive that they might only be used once or twice before the user loses control.

Addiction means a person has no control over whether he or she uses a drug or drinks. Someone who's addicted to cocaine has grown so used to the drug that he or she has to have it. Addiction can be physical, psychological, or both.

Physical addiction is when a person's body actually becomes dependent on a particular substance (even smoking is physically addictive). It also means building tolerance to that substance, so that a person needs a larger dose than ever before to get the same effects. Someone who is physically addicted and stops using a substance like drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes may experience withdrawal symptoms. Common symptoms of withdrawal are diarrhea, shaking, and generally feeling awful.

Psychological addiction happens when the cravings for a drug are psychological or emotional. People who are psychologically addicted feel overcome by the desire to have a drug. They may lie or steal to get it.

A person crosses the line between abuse and addiction when he or she is no longer trying the drug to have fun or get high, but has come to depend on it. His or her whole life centers around the need for the drug. An addicted person — whether it's a physical or psychological addiction or both — no longer feels like there is a choice in taking a substance.

Signs of Addiction

The most obvious sign of an addiction is the need to have a particular drug or substance. However, many other signs can suggest a possible addiction, such as changes in mood or weight loss or gain. (These also are signs of other conditions, too, though, such as depression or eating disorders.)

Signs that you or someone you know may have a drug or alcohol addiction include:

Psychological signals:

• use of drugs or alcohol as a way to forget problems or to relax
• withdrawal or keeping secrets from family and friends
• loss of interest in activities that used to be important
• problems with schoolwork, such as slipping grades or absences
• changes in friendships, such as hanging out only with friends who use drugs
• spending a lot of time figuring out how to get drugs
• stealing or selling belongings to be able to afford drugs
• failed attempts to stop taking drugs or drinking
• anxiety, anger, or depression
• mood swings

Physical signals:

• changes in sleeping habits
• feeling shaky or sick when trying to stop
• needing to take more of the substance to get the same effect
• changes in eating habits, including weight loss or gain

Getting Help

If you think you're addicted to drugs or alcohol, recognizing that you have a problem is the first step in getting help.

A lot of people think they can kick the problem on their own, but that doesn't work for most people. Find someone you trust to talk to. It may help to talk to a friend or someone your own age at first, but a supportive and understanding adult is your best option for getting help. If you can't talk to your parents, you might want to approach a school counselor, relative, doctor, favorite teacher, or religious leader.

Unfortunately, overcoming addiction is not easy. Quitting drugs or drinking is probably going to be one of the hardest things you've ever done. It's not a sign of weakness if you need professional help from a trained drug counselor or therapist. Most people who try to kick a drug or alcohol problem need professional assistance or a treatment program to do so.

Once you start a treatment program, try these tips to make the road to recovery less bumpy:

• Tell your friends about your decision to stop using drugs. Your true friends will respect your decision. This might mean that you need to find a new group of friends who will be 100% supportive. Unless everyone decides to kick their drug habit at once, you probably won't be able to hang out with the friends you did drugs with before.
• Ask your friends or family to be available when you need them. You may need to call someone in the middle of the night just to talk. If you're going through a tough time, don't try to handle things on your own — accept the help your family and friends offer.
• Accept invitations only to events that you know won't involve drugs or alcohol. Going to the movies is probably safe, but you may want to skip a Friday night party until you're feeling more secure. Plan activities that don't involve drugs. Go to the movies, try bowling, or take an art class with a friend.
• Have a plan about what you'll do if you find yourself in a place with drugs or alcohol. The temptation will be there sometimes, but if you know how you're going to handle it, you'll be OK. Establish a plan with your parents or siblings so that if you call home using a code, they'll know that your call is a signal you need a ride out of there.
• Remind yourself that having an addiction doesn't make you bad or weak. If you fall back into old patterns (backslide) a bit, talk to an adult as soon as possible. There's nothing to be ashamed about, but it's important to get help soon so that all of the hard work you put into your recovery is not lost.

If you're worried about a friend who has an addiction, use these tips to help him or her, too. For example, let your friend know that you are available to talk or offer your support. If you notice a friend backsliding, talk about it openly and ask what you can do to help. If your friend is going back to drugs or drinking and won't accept your help, don't be afraid to talk to a nonthreatening, understanding adult, like your parent or school counselor. It may seem like you're ratting your friend out, but it's the best support you can offer.

Above all, offer a friend who's battling an addiction lots of encouragement and praise. It may seem corny, but hearing that you care is just the kind of motivation your friend needs.

Staying Clean

Recovering from a drug or alcohol addiction doesn't end with a 6-week treatment program. It's a lifelong process. Many people find that joining a support group can help them stay clean. There are support groups specifically for teens and younger people. You'll meet people who have gone through the same experiences you have, and you'll be able to participate in real-life discussions about drugs that you won't hear in your school's health class.

Many people find that helping others is also the best way to help themselves. Your understanding of how difficult the recovery process can be will help you to support others — both teens and adults — who are battling an addiction.

If you do have a relapse, recognizing the problem as soon as possible is critical. Get help right away so that you don't undo all the hard work you put into your initial recovery. And, if you do have a relapse, don't ever be afraid to ask for help!

Utah Treatment Centers

If you or someone you love need help with a drug addiction, click the link below to be directed to a list of agencies in Utah that can help.

• Utah Substance Abuse Treatment Centers

Home Security
 

Most residential burglars devote little if any time to the advance planning of any specific break-in. Their crimes are, for the most part, crimes of opportunity. They pick what appears to be an easy mark. If their advance checking and closer examination reveal a greater risk than anticipated, they move onto a safer target. The more you can do to keep your home from looking like an easy target, the safer you are. There are also many steps that you can take to minimize your loss and improve your chances of recovery if a break-in does occur.

The first step in improving overall security is to take a hard look at the security measures already in use in your home. To help your with this task, the South Jordan Police Department has developed a Home Security Survey. Conducting a security survey is important. Go through the test carefully. Look at you house at night as well as in the daytime. Remember, the test points out security weaknesses around you home. Your home cannot be adequately protected until these weaknesses are corrected.

Don’t “welcome” a burglar into your home.

Landscaping and Yard Security

Exterior and Interior Lighting

House and Garage Doors

Locks, Strikes Plates and Hinges

Arcadia Doors & Sliding Glass Windows

Security Systems

Home Security Survey

Other Home Security Information

Landscaping and Yard Security
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A few alterations to your landscaping can be enough to put off intruders. To avoid getting caught, intruders look for property they can get into and out of quickly. Their ideal target is a house surrounded by large hedges and shrubs, which hamper visibility from the street and neighbors houses.

Bushes, Shrubs and Trees: Trim shrubbery and trees so doors and windows are visible to neighbors, and from the street. Trimmed landscaping should not provide concealment for criminals. If you have a second floor, prune trees so they can’t help a thief climb in second floor windows. Place trellises where they can't be used as ladders to gain entry to the upper floors.

• Ground plants (shrubbery and bushes) within four (4) feet of any sidewalks, driveways, doors or gates, should be maintained at a height of not more than two (2) feet.
• Ground plants between four (4) and eight (8) feet of any sidewalks, driveways, doors, or gates, should be maintained at a height of not more than four (4) feet.
• Ground plants under windows should be maintained at a height that is below the window sill.
• Trees should be trimmed so that the lower branches are more than six (6) feet off the ground.

Place large gauge gravel on the ground near windows. The noise caused by intruders walking on it can become a psychological deterrent. DO NOT place river rocks or other items near glass windows or doors. You do not want to provide the burglar with his tools!

Plant spiny (thorny) plants along fences and under windows. Such plants will discourage even the most nimble intruder. Protecting with spiny plants is as effective as the use of barbed wire, and a lot more attractive.

Street Numbers
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Street numbers should be easily visible from the street. Critical time can be saved by emergency responders when the street address for the house is visible from a distance.

On your house:

• Use numbers made of reflective materials, or black on white, those are 6 inches high.
• Keep numbers new and clean and replace when necessary.
• The numbers should be placed under a light and near the front door or garage entrance.

Your house number should be painted on the curb in front of your driveway:

• Four (4) to six (6) inch high black numbers on a white background is most effective.
• It should be centered at the end of your driveway or just to the house side of your driveway.
• If you live along an alley your house number should be painted (as stated above) on the fence outside your alley gate.

Limited or Direct Access to Yards and Store Rooms:
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Intruders look for few or no obstacles blocking quick exits. Fences prevent burglars from carrying away large items if the gates are locked. Gates should be locked at all times, even when you’re home!

Ladders and tools should be stored in a garage or storage shed, and these areas should be locked.

Landscaping should also be designed to control access to your property. Proper barriers make the person with criminal intent feel uncomfortable as he or she approaches your home or business.

Exterior and Interior Lighting
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It is a known fact, that good lighting is a deterrent to crime. While any lighting will help reduce your risk of becoming of a victim, the proper lights, used correctly, will be the most effective deterrent to criminal activity.

Exterior:

Exterior lights are important, especially near doors and in the rear of the house, where intruders do most of their work. All sides of your home should be protected by security lighting that is located high out of reach, and is vandal resistant.

Lighting in carports and garages is critical. For garages, an automatic garage opener is the best choice. Almost every garage door opener made today has a light that comes on when the opener is activated, lighting the garage interior. In carports, it is best to leave a light on, have a light on a timer, or have a light connected to a motion sensor or photo electric cell.

The best light to use on the exterior is a motion detector type of fixture. The advantage to this type of light, especially in the backyard, is that the light warns the resident that someone is in their yard. While there is a concern that dogs, cats, or birds will trigger the sensor and cause the lights to come on, if the resident sets the sensitivity of the sensor correctly this will not be a problem. In the front yard, any type of lighting will be effective, as long the lighting pattern covers the entire front and sides of the house.

Sensor lighting will be effective, but is more prone to “false alarms” caused by things like people walking down the sidewalk, or children playing.

Interior:

When residents go out for an evening, they usually leave on their “burglar beacon”. A burglar beacon is a small light that is left on so they don't walk into a dark house when they come home. These are lights like the one above the kitchen sink or stove, the hallway light, or a light in the corner of the living room. Unfortunately these lights are a signal for the criminal that no one is home. If you go out for an evening leave a radio and several lights on. When you go on vacation put at least two lights, in different parts of the house, and a radio on timers. Contact the South Jordan Police Department and sign up for a Vacation Watch. Regardless of whether you are on vacation, or just gone for the evening, from the outside your house should look as if someone is home. For a Vacation Watch call (801) 254-4708 or (801) 840-4000 (after hours) and provide the required information to the call taker.

House and Garage Doors
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Entry doors should be solid core wood (at least 1 3/4” thick) or metal wrapped. Your door should fit its frame tightly, with no more than 1/8” clearance between the door and the frame. If the gap is too big, replace the door or bolt a sturdy metal strip to the door edge. You will boost your protection, and save energy too.

Most hollow core doors can be easily broken through. If the door is flimsy or weak, or doesn't fit securely into the frame, it offers little protection, no matter what locks you use.

Doors with decorative glass panels or windows are easy marks. It takes only seconds to break the glass and unlock the door. If you do not want to replace such doors, install a break-resistant plastic panel, such as Lexan®, or decorative grille over the glass. Attach the grill with special non-removable screws.

For the best protection, install a wrought iron security door over your front door. Wrought iron doors not only provide an extra level of visible security against a break-in, they also allow you to open your front door to strangers, or leave the front door open for ventilation.

Your garage door should be securely locked at all times (even when you are home). Keeping it locked is just as important as keeping your home locked, especially if the garage is attached to the home. Once inside the garage a burglar can work uninterrupted at getting into the house.  South Jordan Police Department statistics show that a vast majority of our non-forced entry residential crime is through open garage doors.

If you install a “doggie door” be sure it is not a way in for burglars as well as the dog. Do not be complacent by the fact that you have a small dog. Burglars come in all sizes!

Locks, Strike Plates and Hinges
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Locks/Deadbolts

The “lock-in-knob” offers you privacy and convenience but it does not offer security from intruders. In fact many “lock-in-knob” locks can be opened by using a simple credit card. You may have privacy, but you don’t have security.

All exterior doors require the use of a deadbolt lock. When you turn the key the locking mechanism slides a strong metal bolt from the door into the door’s frame.

When you buy a deadbolt lock, MAKE SURE:

• The bolt extends at least 1” into the front edge of the door.
• The strike plate is attached through the trim to the door frame with screws at least 3” long.
• It has a rotation case hardened shroud that prevents it from being twisted off with a pair of pliers or other tools.

The two most common types of deadbolts:

Single Cylinder Deadbolts - Have a thumb turn on the interior side. They are convenient to use and may speed up the exit process in the event of fire. If used near a window they can be opened by breaking the window and reaching through. This type of deadbolt lock does not prevent the burglar from taking your property out through the door.

Double Cylinder Deadbolts - Utilize keys on both sides. This type of lock should be considered if there is glass window within 40” of the lock. However, this type of lock does present a potential fire escape hazard. This type of deadbolt lock can delay a burglar that wants to use the door to remove your property from your home.

Keys

As many as half of all burglaries take place without forced entry. Many times the burglar uses a key. Be sure your keys don’t fall into the wrong hands.

• Never carry identification on your key ring or holder.
• Re-key all locks when you move into a new house or apartment.
• Know who has keys to your home. Do not give keys to maintenance or deliver people. If you must leave a key behind, leave it with a trusted neighbor. Make sure that each member of your family knows where his or her key is.
• Never hide a key outside. Burglars know all the hiding places.
• Do not hang keys on hooks within plain view inside your home.

Strike Plate      

The strike plate is attached to the door frame with screws. The metal bolt of the deadbolt lock slides into the strike plate to secure the door soundly to the door frame.

A high security strike plate is required to keep the metal bolt from being kicked from the door frame when locked. A high security strike plate should have at least 4 screws that are a minimum of 3” long.

Hinges

Hinges are often installed with the same ¾” screws as the common strike plates. Replace these with 2” to 3” fully threaded screws so the hinges are anchored to the sub-frame.

In some cases the hinges are installed in such a manner that the hinge pins are exposed to the exterior and an intruder may attempt to remove the pins in an effort to gain entry.

Hinges can be pinned by installing a partially threaded screw into the frame side of the hinge. The unthreaded portion of the screw is left exposed and the head of the screw is cut off. A corresponding hole is drilled into the door and hinge on the opposite side, so when the door is closed the exposed portion of the screw fits in to the door. This will prevent the door from the being lifted out.

Arcadia Doors and Sliding Glass Windows
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People often install sturdy locks on their front doors but leave arcadia (sliding glass) doors and sliding glass windows “wide open” to illegal entry. Burglars look for both of these because they are easy to open. Usually, arcadia doors and windows are more secluded than a front door, making a perfect place for burglars to hide and enter. Two factors must be protected against.

Prying the Lock

Most arcadia doors and sliding windows come equipped with a lock that is easily pried open. A supplemental lock must be installed.

Broomsticks (they should fit snug), “Charlie bars” and finger operated locks provide some protection.

Key locking devices are much preferred because they can prevent the burglars from using the door or window to remove stolen property.

There are several types of supplemental locks available. Keyed locks may be keyed alike with other entry lock sets and deadbolts. Check with your locksmith or hardware store and select a sturdy type that most suits your home.

Lifting Out

Many arcadia doors and sliding windows can be lifted out of their tracks from the outside.

Two sheet metal screws placed in the track above the removable part of the door or window can prevent it from being removed. Adjust the screws so that the doors or window will just clear underneath them.

Drill a hole and insert a nail through the inside frame and part way through the metal door frame. You can remove the nail but the burglar can't.

Double Hung Windows

To secure a double hung window, drill a downward sloping hole into the top of the bottom window, and through that into the bottom of the top window. A pin can now be inserted, locking the window shut.

By partly opening the window (less than 4 inches) and making a second set of holes, the window can then be used for ventilation. Remember, open windows and doors, even if secured, should never be left unattended while you are gone or asleep.

Security Alarms
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Do you keep extremely valuable property (jewelry, television sets, computers, other electronic equipment, etc.) in your house? Do you often leave your house unattended for more that a few hours (go to work or school for example), or do you want more protection? These are reasons to invest in a quality alarm system.

The FBI has announced that over a ten year period, and average of 1 of every 4 residences throughout the nation will be burglarized. Based upon statistics like these, the South Police Department recommends that most homes be protected by a good security system.

Many quality alarm systems are available. Before you purchase a security system, you should have in mind what kind of system your want. This will prevent buying more equipment than you actually need. Read as much about different brands and types of systems as you can. Talk to friends and neighbors that have alarm systems. We recommend that you speak to at least three security alarm companies about their product and service prior to purchasing any alarm system. Remember, you get what you pay for in many cases.

Choosing Your System
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Common questions asked by people considering an alarm system:

• How do I know the right company to choose when considering the purchase of an alarm system?
• How much protection do I need?
• How much should I expect to pay?

Tips to help when choosing an alarm company:

• Ask about insurance...general liability, workman’s compensation, and errors and omissions. You have every right to ask for certificates of insurance for these items. This protects you!  Because if the company is not properly protected, the claim or losses falls on you!
• Ask for the company’s business license, which allows them to do business in your community.
• Ask for local referrals of other customers in your area that have had systems installed like the one being proposed to you.
• Check your contract! Review carefully what you sign, make sure everything is agreed upon in writing. Know what the warranty period is and what is included in the warranty.
• Remember, an adequate design should consider the structure, the lifestyle, the perceived needs and the budget of the occupant.
• Ask is the company has been established for 3-5 years.
• Ask if it is going to be monitored locally or outside of the state of Utah.
• Be sure the company does the entire installation and down not subcontract work out.

The South Jordan Police Department does not prefer one alarm company over another nor do they recommend companies, brands, or types of security devices of any kind.

To reduce the number of false alarms (nearly every burglary alarm received is verified false) that police officers must respond to, the city has an alarm ordinance. For additional information, click here.

Other Home Security Information
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Home Inventory List

Keep a “Personal Property Inventory List” in a safe place, possibly with your insurance papers. This helps to recover stolen property in the event of a theft or burglary. Keep a duplicate copy in a safe deposit box or other safe place.

The more complete your inventory list is the better. In case of a loss by causes other than theft it may help you establish your loss with your insurance company. As an example, if you have a fire in your residence and lose a couch, an end table and a portion of your carpet in your front room, the accurate listing of when and how much you paid for the items will assist you in establishing your loss.

On the inventory list indicate the room the property was located in. Make the description of the item as complete as possible. Include the manufacturer model number, size, color, and the material the item is made of. This list might include damage marks, repairs, etc. Make sure to list the manufacture’s serial number on the list. Do not confuse the model with the serial number.

If you mark your property with a personal number, use your Utah Driver License number, not your social security number. To aid you in marking your valuables the South Jordan Police Department has a program called Operation Identification, which allows citizens of South Jordan to borrow an engraver from the police department. To learn more about the program, read the Operation Identification web page.

Safety Tips at Home
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• If you are bothered by obscene calls, hang up immediately and dial *57. This will record the location of the last call to your phone, with the phone company. Then contact the phone company and make a harassing calls complaint.
• Always be observant of your surroundings
• If you live alone don’t use your martial status or fist name on your telephone listing or on your mail box.
• Get to know your neighbors.
• When returning home, or to your car, have your keys in your hand so that you can let yourself in without delay.
• If you think you’re being followed, Don’t go home! Go to an open business. If you’re still being followed call the police from there.
• Park your car in well lighted areas. Lock the doors and take the keys.
• If you think a prowler is threatening, take no direct action yourself, dial 911 immediately.

Do's and Don’ts
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Do’s

• Use the security devices you have.
• Leave lights on inside and out when your go out for the evening.
• Have the police and fire department telephone number near your telephone.
• Carry only what is absolutely necessary in your purse.
• Check with the manager before letting repairmen in your apartment.
• Close your drapes in the evening hours.
• Be suspicious of people loitering around your house, apartment complex, or the parking lot.
• Call the police if you see anything suspicious.

Don’ts

• Don’t keep large sums of money in your home.
• Don’t carry large sums of money while you are out.
• Don’t let strangers in to “use your telephone.”
• Don’t undress in front of open windows.
• Don’t leave notes on your door.
• Don’t hide a key (leave one with a trusted neighbor).
• Don’t display expensive equipment or items in plain view through your window.
• Don’t use your name or telephone number on your answering machine message. Use a generic message that does not state that you’re not home.
• Don’t answer personal questions on telephone surveys.
• Don’t admit “service reps” from utilities unless you have an appointment or can verify their authenticity.

What is Suspicious
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Suspicious Persons

• Going Door to Door in Residential Area - Especially suspicious if, after a few houses are visited, one or more of the subjects goes into a back or side yard. More suspicious if another remains in the front when this occurs.
  Possible significance: “Casing” for a house to burglarize, burglary in progress, soliciting violation, or a trespass.
• Waiting in Front of a House or Business - Particularly suspicious if owners are absent, or, if it’s a business and the establishment is closed.
  Possible Significance: Lookout for a burglary in progress inside.
• Forcing Entrance To or Tampering With a Residence, Vehicle, etc. - Suspicious under almost any circumstances.
  Possible Significance: Burglary, theft, criminal mischief, or trespass in progress.
• Non-Resident Going Into Back or Side Yard of House - Suspicious under almost any circumstances.
  Possible Significance: Possible burglary or trespass in progress.
• Person Running - Especially if something of value is being carried.
  Possible Significance: Fleeing the scene of a crime.
• Exhibiting Unusual Mental of Physical Symptoms - Do not approach these people.
  Possible Significance: Possibly injured, under the influence of drugs, or otherwise needing medical or psychiatric assistance.
• Carrying Property - Suspicious depending upon the circumstances. For example, if at an unusual hour or in an unusual place, and if the property is not wrapped as if just purchased.
  Possible Significance: Subject leaving the scene of a robbery, burglary, or theft.
• Excessive Human Traffic To and From a Certain Residence - Not suspicious unless it occurs on a daily or very regular basis, especially during late or unusual hours.
  Possible Significance: Vice or narcotics activities, or a “fence” operation.

Suspicious Vehicles
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• Certain Moving Vehicles - Especially if slow moving and without lights, or if the course followed appears aimless or repetitive. This is suspicious in any location, but particularly in the area of schools, parks or playgrounds.
  Possible Significance: “Casing” for places to rob or burglarize. Drug pusher or sex offender.
• Certain Parked, or Occupied Vehicles - May contain one or more persons, especially significant if observed at an unusual hour.
  Possible Significance: Lookout for a burglary or robbery in progress. True even if occupants appear to be lovers.
• Vehicles Being Loaded With Valuables - Suspicious if parked in front of a closed business or unattended residence, even if the vehicle is a legitimate looking commercial unit, possibly even bearing a sign identifying it as a repair vehicle, moving van, etc.
  Possible Significance: Burglary or other theft on progress.
• Abandoned Vehicle - Possible stolen car.
• Vehicle Containing Weapons - Suspicious under almost any circumstances.
  Possible Significance: Owner may engage in criminal activity.
• Other Unusual Activity Involving Vehicles - Persons attempting to forcibly enter a locked vehicle, especially at night or in a parking lot.
  Possible Significance: Burglary, theft, or criminal mischief in progress.
• Persons Detaching Mechanical Parts or Accessories from a Vehicle - Suspicious especially at night in the street or in a parking lot.
  Possible Significance: Theft or criminal mischief in progress.
• Apparent Business Transactions Conducted from a Vehicle - Suspicious especially if around schools or parks, and if juveniles or females.
  Possible Significance: Kidnapping, or drug transactions.
• Objects Thrown From a Vehicle - Suspicious especially while traveling at high rate speed.
  Possible Significance: Disposal of contraband or garbage dumping.
• Property in Vehicles - Not suspicious unless the property is not normally found in vehicles, especially if observed at unusual hours or if TV sets, stereos, un-mounted tape decks, or auto parts are involved.
  Possible Significance: Stolen Property.

Other Unusual Situations
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• Property in Homes, Private Garages, Storage Areas, etc. - Suspicious if accumulations are large or otherwise unusual (such a several TV sets in a garage) and if the items are in good condition, but are not in use.
  Possible Significance: Stolen property.
• Property Carried by Persons on Foot - Normally not suspicious unless at an unusual hour or in an unusual place. Especially questionable if the person is running. May be significant if the property is not wrapped as if just purchased.
  Possible Significance: Possible stolen property.
• Property Being Removed From or Being Placed into Vehicles or Buildings - Not suspicious unless unusual hour or places are involved, for instance, from closed businesses or residences whose owners are known to be absent.
  Possible Significance: Burglary or theft in progress.
• Open or Broken Doors or Windows - At closed businesses or residences whose owners are temporarily absent.
  Possible Significance: Burglary in progress or scene of completed burglary.
• Unusual Noises, etc. - Gunshots, screaming, sounds of combat, abnormally barking dogs, anything suggestive of foul play, danger, or illegal activity.
  Call the police immediately!

Neighborhood Watch
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The Neighborhood Watch Program is the cornerstone of all neighborhood crime prevention programs. To learn more about establishing a Neighborhood Watch on your street, contact the Crime Prevention Unit at (801) 254-4708, or read the Neighborhood Watch web page in the Crime Prevention section of our web site.

Residential Security Survey
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Go to our Residential Security Survey, and see how safe your home is. It will only take a few minutes. The results may surprise you! Or you can the Crime Prevention Unit at (801) 254-4708 to schedule an appointment.

Assault Prevention and Personal Protection
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Avoid becoming a victim! Read the Assault Prevention web page for information about personal protection and for information about the Sexual Assault Prevention class offered by the South Police Department.

Auto Theft Prevention
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Read the Auto Theft Prevention web page to learn some simple ways you can keep from becoming an auto theft victim.

Operation Identification

What is Operation Identification

Operation Identification is a citizen's burglary prevention program for use in homes and business.  The Operation ID program involves the marking of property with an identifying number as a means of discouraging burglary and theft.  In communities where it has been properly implemented, Operation Identification has shown dramatic results in its ability to reduce burglaries.

The Operation ID program has two parts

• First: Mark your valuables with your Driver's License Number so that your property can be easily traced and identified as yours.
• Second: Display a sticker which tells would-be burglars that your property has been marked.  Stickers are available through the National Neighborhood Watch Institute.  http://www.nnwi.org/operation_id.asp

What Makes Operation Identification So Effective

Marked property is difficult for a burglar to dispose of or re-sell.  It can be traced to the rightful owner with relative ease.  If the burglar is caught with marked property, it is solid evidence of possession of stolen goods.

How to Participate

To participate in Operation Identification call the South Jordan Police Department (Det. Samuel Winkler) and ask about borrowing an electric engraving tool.  If we have one available, it can be picked up at our Daybreak substation (4454 W Harvest Moon Dr; 11685 S).  There is no charge to use the engraver, however it must be returned within forty-eight (48) hours.  If an engraver is not available, they can be purchased at any hardware store at very little expense.

When marking your valuables, always use your Drivers License Number, never your Social Security Number.  Also, always use the two letter state identifier along with your license number.  Notice, there are no gaps or spaces in the numbers shown.                 

"UT152152152"

As you mark your items, always engrave the number on an area that cannot be easily dismantled, and which is not easily seen.

After marking your property, make a list of your valuables and keep a copy of the list in a safe place.  If you should subsequently become a burglary victim, you will be able to quickly describe the stolen property from the list.  Of course some items can not be marked and we suggest a photograph or video of these items.  This will be of great help to the police department in our attempts to recover the stolen property.

Once property has been marked and a list made, display an Operation Identification sticker on doors and windows (see how to purchase above) which might be used for entry.  By advertising your participation in "Operation ID" in this way, you are announcing that your valuable property has been marked and will be difficult for a burglar to re-sell.  Often the presence of the sticker alone is enough to deter a burglar.

Burglary is the most frequently committed crime in the United States.  By participating in Operation Identification you are taking one important step to protect your possessions from burglary and theft.

For further information, contact the Crime Prevention Unit at (801) 254-4708.

Assault Prevention
 

Sexual assault is a crime of violence, not sexual passion.  It is meant to degrade, humiliate and control.  The attacker can be a stranger or someone known and trusted.  It can happen to anyone, at any time, at any place.  The trauma of being assaulted is a shock from which many victims never fully recover.

No matter which form it takes, sexual assault is as much a problem today as it has been throughout history.  While those most at risk are people between the ages of 10 and 29, it can happen to anyone at any age.

There is no portrait of a “typical” rapist.  These men, like their victims, are all ages and come from all racial and social backgrounds.  They can be college students, married men, doctors, teachers, or unemployed transients.  Most are not crazy or deranged men looking for sex.   In fact, the majority of offenders are highly intelligent, married men with families and have ready access to consensual sex; but they rape to control, dominate and humiliate the victim.

The information below provides suggestions on how to avoid dangerous situations, ways to resist if threatened or attacked and how to cope after an attack.  The information is by no means complete.  There are numerous community organizations that provide prevention programs and post incident counseling to citizens and victims.

Myths and Facts About Sexual Assault

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MYTH: Sexual assault is a crime of passion and lust.
Sexual assault is a crime of violence.  Assailants seek to dominate, humiliate and punish their victims.

MYTH: You cannot be assaulted against your will.
Assailants overpower their victim with the threat of violence or with actual violence.  In cases of acquaintance rape or incest, an assailant often uses the victim’s trust in assailant to isolate the victim.

MYTH: A person who has really been assaulted will be hysterical.
Survivors exhibit a spectrum of emotional responses to the assault: calm, hysteria, laughter, guilt, anger, apathy, shock.  Each survivor copes with the trauma of the assault in a different way.

MYTH: Sexual assault is an impulsive act.
Seventy-five percent of all assaults are planned in advance.  When three or more assailants are involved, 90% are planned.  If two assailants are involved, 83%.  With one assailant, 58% are planned.

MYTH: Assailants are usually crazed psychopaths who do not know their victims.
As many as 80% of all assaults involve either a known acquaintance, or someone the victim has had contact with, but does not know personally.

MYTH: Gang rape is rare
In 43% of all reported cases, more that one assailant was involved.

MYTH: Many women claim they have been sexually assaulted because they want revenge upon the man they accuse.
Only 4-6% of sexual assault cases are based on false accusations.  This percentage of unsubstantiated cases is the same as with many other reported crimes.

MYTH: Persons who dress or act in a sexy way are asking to be sexually assaulted.
Many convicted sexual assault assailants are unable to remember what their victims looked like or were wearing.

MYTH: All women secretly want to be raped.
While women and men may fantasize about being overpowered during sexual relations it is usually with a person of their choosing, who they trust.  They are in control of the fantasy.  No one wants the physical and emotional pain caused by a sexual assault.

MYTH: Only young, pretty women are assaulted.
There is no such thing as a “typical victim.”  Both men and women are assaulted by both male and female assailants.  Victims have ranged in age from newborns to 100 years old.

MYTH: It is impossible to sexually assault a man.
Men fall victim for the same reasons as women: they are overwhelmed by threats or acts of physical and emotional violence.  Also, most sexual assaults that involve a male victim are gang assaults, by other males.

MYTH: If you do not struggle or use physical force to resist you have not been sexually assaulted.
If you are forced to have sex without your consent, you have been assaulted whether or not a struggle was involved.

Statistics
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• Sexual assault continues to represent the most rapidly growing violent crime in America.
• Over 700,000 women are sexually assaulted each year.
• It is estimated that fewer than 50% of rapes are reported.
• Approximately 20% of sexual assaults against women are perpetrated by assailants unknown to the victim.  The remainder are committed by friends, acquaintances, intimates, and family members.  Acquaintance rape is particularly common among adolescent victims.
• Male victims represent five percent of reported sexual assaults.
• Among female rape victims 61% are under 18.
• At least 20% of adult women, 15% of college women and 12% of adolescent women have experienced some form of sexual abuse or assault during their lifetimes.
• Over 50% of the attacks occur in the home, and most of these are planned.
• In 85% of the cases, some type of direct force is used, whether it is choking, beating or plain physical force.  A weapon is used one-third of the time.
• Rapists rarely attack once.  They have one of the highest repeat rates of all criminals.  More that 70% of those arrested for the crime are re-arrested within seven years.

Profiles of Rapists
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The FBI has established four personality characteristics profiles for rapists.  While most rapists will fit into one of the profiles, due to the fact that there are a variety of personalities, there is no one correct characteristic for a profile.  Suspects may exhibit characteristics from one or more of the profiles.

Power Reassurance Rapist - 81%
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Motivation:
To resolve self-doubts by reassuring himself of his masculinity with no real intent to further harm his victim.

Style:

• Surprise Approach with force.
• Strikes between midnight and 5 am, usually at the victim’s residence.
• Selects victims through voyeurism.
• Attacks victims who are alone or with small children.
• Negotiates with the victim.
• Does whatever the victim allows him to do.
• Attacks in his own residence or work area.
• Commits single assault.
• May keep a diary.

Social Interaction:

• Few friends
• Self-concept as a loser
• Menial job with little public contact

Power Assertive Rapist - 12%
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Motivation:
To resolve self-doubts by reassuring himself of his masculinity with no real intent to further harm his victim.

Style:

• Exploits opportunity after one or two dates
• Slaps, hits, curses, tears rather than removes clothes
• Waits 20-25 days between assaults
• Performs multiple assaults
• Disrobes victim
• Doesn’t use mask or disguise

Social Interaction:

• Flashy car
• frequents singles bars
• “Hard hat” act
• “Macho” type

Anger Retaliatory Rapist - 5%
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Motivation:
To punish or degrade women by getting even; uses sex as a weapon for real or perceived injustices placed on him by women.

Style:

• Acts spontaneously
• Commits assaults in his own area

Social Interaction:

• Loner
• Minimal contact with others
• Works at “Action jobs”

Anger Excitation Rapist - 2%
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Motivation:
Infliction of pain or erotic aggression

Style:

• Uses premeditated con-style approach
• Immobilizes victim
• Assaults away from his area
• Uses weapon and/or tools of choice
• Usually records his assaults
• Learns quickly by experience
• Does not experience remorse

Social Interaction:

• Family man
• “Good marriage”
• Compulsive
• Middle class

How to Reduce Your Risk of Becoming a Sexual Assault Victim
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While statistics say that most sexual assaults are premeditated, in some instances it is a “crime of opportunity,” such as a date rape.  The victim and suspect, for whatever reason, are at the same place at the same time.  Whether the assault is one of opportunity or premeditation, there are simple precautions a person can follow to reduce, avoid, and even eliminate their chances of becoming a victim.

There are three locations where a person should be especially alert.

• While Driving
• At Home
• While Walking

While Driving
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• Keep your car in good working order and the gas tank at least half full.
• Park in well-lighted areas and lock the doors, even if you’ll only be gone a short time.
• Before returning to your car look around the parking lot for suspicious persons.
• When you return to your car have your key ready and check the front and rear seats and floor before getting in.
• Drive with all the doors locked.
• Never pick up hitchhikers.
• If your have a flat tire, drive on it until you reach a safe well-lighted, and well-traveled area.
• If your car breaks down, put the hood up, lock the doors, and put on the flashers.  Use flares if you have them and tie a white cloth to the antenna.  If someone stops to help, don’t get out of the car, but roll down the widow slightly and ask the person to call the police or a tow service for you.
• If you see another motorist in trouble, don’t stop.  Help by going to a telephone and calling the police for assistance.
• Exercise extra caution when using underground and enclosed parking garages.  Try not to go alone.
• If you are being followed, don’t drive home.  Go to the nearest police or fire station and honk your horn.  Or drive to an open gas station or other business where you can safely call the police.  Don’t leave your car unless you are certain you can get inside the building safely.  Try to obtain the license plate number and description of the car following you.

At Home
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• Make sure all windows and doors in your home can be locked securely, particularly sliding glass doors.  Use the locks.  Keep entrances well-lighted.
• Install a peephole in the door and use it.
• Check the identification of any sales or service person before letting him in.
• Don’t let any stranger into your home when you’re alone--no matter what the reason or how dire the emergency is supposed to be.  Offer to make an emergency phone call while they wait outside.
• Never give the impression that you are at home alone if strangers telephone or come to the door.
• Get to know your neighbors -- someone you can turn to if you’re worried.
• If you live in an apartment, avoid being in the laundry room or garage by yourself, especially at night.
• If you come home alone and find a door or window open or signs of forced entry, don’t go in.  Go to the nearest phone and call the police.

While Walking
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• Be alert to your surroundings and the people around you.  Keep your head up and look alert.
• Stay in well-lighted areas
• Walk confidently at a steady pace on the side of the street facing traffic.
• Walk close to the curb.  Avoid doorways, bushes, and alleys.
• Wear clothes and shoes that give you freedom of movement.  If your wear high heels at work, carry them with you and wear athletic shoes to work.  You can change when you get there.
• Don’t walk alone at night if possible.  If you have to, be alert.
• Be careful when people stop you for directions.  Always reply from a distance, and never get too close to the car.  If you are in trouble, attract help any way you can.  Yell something other people will understand, “Help”, “Police”, “Fire!”

If You Are Attacked
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• Keep your head.  Stay as calm as possible, think rationally and evaluate your resources and options.
• It may be more advisable to submit (this does not mean you consent) than resist and risk severe injury or death. Everyone has different strengths and abilities.  You will have to make this decision based on the circumstances.  But, don’t resist if the attacker has a weapon.
• Keep assessing the situation as it is happening.  If one strategy doesn’t work, try another.
• Possible options in addition to nonresistance are negotiating, stalling for time, distracting the assailant and fleeing to a safe place, verbal assertiveness, screaming to attract attention and physical resistance.
• If you think fighting back/struggling may discourage the attack, remember you have to hurt the rapist bad enough to create the time you need to escape.  Consider scratching with your fingernails, biting, poking in the eyes, kicking in the knee or groin, hitting on the nose, or jabbing the eyes or throat.
• Weapons such as guns, knives, and chemical sprays can easily be turned against you unless you are trained to, and are not afraid to, use them.  You must be prepared to possibly kill the attacker.
• If you are determined to carry some type of weapon, a chemical spray (such as pepper spray) is your best choice.  It’s non-lethal if used against you.  Remember, you already have weapons with you, your keys, pens, pencils, etc.  You also have your most important weapon, your brain.
• You may be able to turn the attacker off with bizarre behavior such as throwing up, urinating, or defecating.
• REMEMBER, THAT WHATEVER YOU DO, THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IS YOUR SURVIVAL.

Surviving a Sexual Assault
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Fear, guilt and embarrassment may make it difficult to report the crime and tell those closest to you.  After a severe emotional trauma, one needs the understanding and support of family and friends to help get through this difficult time.  It is important to realize however, that loved ones do not always know what to say or do to help.  Well meaning advice or criticism about what happened is obviously painful.  Keep in mind that their reactions can be the result of their own reluctance to accept the reality of everyone’s vulnerability to crime.  They can only do their best.  It sometimes helps if you can let them know what you need.

A traumatic event like this leaves emotions raw and leaves people feeling vulnerable.  It is normal to experience dramatic mood swings, to cry easily, to be irritable, or become upset over small things.  You may have a startled response if you see someone who looks similar to your assailant or when you see something that reminds you of the crime.  It is helpful to get counseling in order to deal with these feelings and to learn about the normal steps victims tend to go through after an assault.

Victims tend to go through several stages when coping with a sexual assault.  General denial comes first, followed by a realization phase and then anger.

The Denial Stage

Initially, there may be denial with the victim shutting others out and avoiding the subject. This is often an attempt to believe that the assault did not happen.  Disbelief can be protection from the overwhelming feelings associated with the trauma.

The Realization Stage

Denial is often followed by a realization phase where feelings begin to come out.  Victims often lack trust in others.  Fear of future assaults may cause you to isolate yourself.  The most destructive feeling at this stage is a tendency to blame yourself for the assault.  Don’t blame yourself.

The Anger Stage

Victims usually move next to a stage of anger.  This is healthy when your feelings are directed toward your assailant.  Sometimes your anger may be misdirected towards those around you.  Let them know that you are not angry with them, but rather with what happened to you.  The anger can cleanse because it indicates you are beginning to integrate the event into your life and move on without guilt.

Looking Ahead

Finally, you can begin to look ahead.  You accept that it was terrible, but you realize it is over.

Suggestions
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• Report the crime and cooperate with the police.  Taking positive action against the assailant will help resolve your trauma.  You will also be helping your community.
• It is your personal decision who else should be told about what happened.  You have a right to privacy and only those you wish to tell need know about the incident.
• Express your feelings and needs to those who care.  Be clear about what you want them to do or not do.
• It is very normal for feelings of fear to linger and these are often difficult to overcome.  Do whatever you need to do to be safe.  Talk to a counselor about ways to feel safe.
• Return to your normal routine as soon as possible.  Everyday routine will help you regain a feeling of control in your life.

Reaction of Others

Your family and friends will also have mixed feelings and confusion over the crime. They may be uncomfortable around you because they may be afraid of making things worse.  Common feelings are anger at the assailant, and frustration at not being able to direct that anger at the assailant.  Marital relationships can become strained.  The victim often feels uncomfortable resuming sexual relations following an assault.  Most spouses or partners of the victim can accept these feelings intellectually, but still feel rejected or blamed in some way.  Encourage your spouse or partner and other family members to seek help if they are having a hard time adjusting.

The Police Investigation

If an arrest was not made immediately, a detective will be assigned to investigate the case.  You will probably be questioned several times in an effort to get as much information as possible about your assailant and the crime.  Report any new information on the case to the detective assigned.  You may be asked to help with an artist’s drawing, take a polygraph or view a lineup.  These are investigative tools.  Without positive identification of the suspect, prosecution is not possible.

Going To Court

If the suspect is arrested, the suspect may be released from jail on bond or on their own promise to return for court.  The judge will order him not to see you or talk to you.  You should report any contact by the suspect or by anyone claiming to be the suspect’s attorney to the police and county attorney immediately.  Your interests will be represented by the District Attorney’s Office shortly after an arrest is made and charges are filed.

You may be subpoenaed to testify at a preliminary hearing about what happened.  During this hearing the judge listens to the facts to decide if there is “Probable Cause” for the case to go forward to District Court.  This hearing is not to determine guilt or innocence, and there is no jury.  The court process can take many months.  This is normal so try not to be frustrated by the delays.  Your Victim Advocate case worker is available to give you the information and emotional support necessary to achieve a successful prosecution. Your input and participation will be important at various times to insure a just outcome.

Victims' Bill of Rights

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Crime victims have specific rights under Utah Laws and the Rules of Criminal Procedure, which insure that the victim will be treated fairly.

• To be treated with fairness, respect, and dignity, and to be free from intimidation, harassment, or abuse, throughout the criminal process.
• To be informed, upon request, when the accused or convicted person is released from custody or has escaped.
• To be present at, and upon request, to be informed of all criminal proceedings where the defendant has the right to be present.
• To be heard at any proceeding involving a post-arrest release decision, a negotiated plea, and sentencing.
• To refuse an interview, deposition, or other discovery request by the defendant, the defendant’s attorney, or other persons acting on behalf of the defendant.
• To confer with the prosecution, after the crime against the victim has been charged, before trial or before any disposition of the case and to be informed of the disposition.
• To read pre-sentence reports relating to the crime against the victim when they are available to the defendant.
• To receive prompt restitution from the person or persons convicted of the criminal conduct that caused the victim’s loss or injury.
• To be heard at any proceeding when any post-conviction release from confinement is being considered.
• To a speedy trial or disposition, and prompt and final conclusion of the case after the conviction and sentence.
• To have all rules governing criminal procedure and the admissibility of evidence in all criminal proceeding protect victims’ rights and to have these rules be subject to amendment or repeal by the legislature to ensure the protection of these rights.
• To be informed of victims’ constitutional rights.

A victims exercise of any right granted by this section shall not be grounds for dismissing a criminal proceeding or setting aside any conviction or sentence.

The Crime Victim Reparations Program
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The Crime Victim Reparations Program may be able to provide financial assistance for victims of violent crime.  The program may pay for the following crime related services: medical treatment, counseling, funeral expenses, relocation and related costs, rent (family violence and child abuse only), lost wages, child care and replacement of doors, locks, windows, or other essential personal property required for the health and safety of the victim.

The eligibility criteria that has been established by the Utah Commission on Criminal & Juvenile Justice is as follows:

Who may qualify?

• Victims who suffer physical or psychological injury or death as a direct result of criminally injurious conduct.
• Family and dependants of deceased victims.
• Representatives acting on behalf of victims.

How does a person qualify?

• Victim shall be a resident of Utah or the criminally injurious conduct shall have occurred in Utah.
• Report crime to law enforcement – no conviction is required but enough information is needed from law enforcement to substantiate a crime occurred.
• Cooperate fully with law enforcement officials in the investigation and prosecution of the case.

Who does not qualify?

• A victim whose own misconduct contributed to the crime.
• A victim who suffered property loss or damage.
• A victim engaged in illegal conduct at the time of the crime.
• The offender, accomplice or anyone whose award would unjustly enrich the offender or accomplice.
• Anyone who is incarcerated in a penal institution when the crime occurs.
• Anyone in violation of parole or probation when victimized.

How long does it take?

·         It can take up to 30 days to determine if you are eligible for assistance.

·         Payment will be made when all required information is received.

For further information, call the Crime Victim Reparations Program at 801-238-2360 or 800-621-7444.

Community Resources

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Rape Recovery Center

2035 South 1300 East

Salt Lake City, Utah 84105

801-467-7282

24-hour crisis number 801-467-7273

Statewide 24-hour crisis number 888-421-1100

National hotline 800-656-hope

VINE (Victim Information & Notification Everyday)

VINE gives information regarding information on suspect detention status (inmate, release, etc) along with court information.

877-UT-4-VINE

Utah Crime Victim Reparations Program

350 East 500 South, Suite 200

Salt Lake City, Utah 84111

801-238-2360

Statewide 800-621-7444

www.crimevictim.utah.gov

Other resources may be available by calling 211.

Sources:

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1. Tempe Police Department, Tempe, Arizona
2. University of Chicago Library, Chicago, IL
3. National Crime Prevention Council, Washington D.C.
4. Dupre, A.R., Hampton, H.L., Morrison, H, and Meeks, G.R. Sexual Assault Obstetrical and Gynecological Survey, 1993;48:640-648
5. National Crime Center and Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center. Rape in America: A report to the Nation, Arlington, VA 1992:1-16
6. Koss M.P., Hidden Rape: sexual aggression and victimization in a national sample of students in higher education, In: Burgess A.W., ed Rape and Sexual Assault. New York, N.Y.: Garland Publishing: 1988;2:3-25
7. American Academy of Pediatrics, Committee on Adolescence, Sexual assault and the adolescent. Pediatrics. 1994;94(5):761-765
8. Heise, L.L. Reproductive freedom and violence against women: where are the intersections? Law and Medical Ethics. 1993;21 (2):206-216

Eliminating Auto Theft

The citizens of South Jordan play a vital role in stopping auto theft.  To help protect your vehicle, we recommend the layered protection.  The more layers of protection on your vehicle, the more difficult it is to steal.

Layer #1 - Common Sense

An unlocked vehicle with a key in the ignition is an open invitation to any thief, regardless of which anti-theft device you use.  The most common sense approach to protection is the simplest and the most cost-effective way to thwart would-be thieves.

Secure your vehicle even if parking for brief periods.  You should always:

• Remove your keys from the ignition
• Lock your doors and close your windows
• Park in a well-lit area
• Use your garage
• Remove all visible valuable from your vehicle

Layer #2 - Warning Devices

The second layer of protection is a visible or audible device which alerts thieves that your vehicle is protected.  Popular second layer devices include:

• Audible alarm
• Steering column collars
• Steering wheel/brake pedal lock
• Brake locks
• Wheel locks
• Tire locks/tire deflators
• Theft deterrent decals
• Identification markers in or on vehicle
• Window etching
• Laminated glass

Layer #3 - Immobilizing Device

The third layer of protection is a device which prevents thieves from bypassing your ignition and hot-wiring the vehicle.  Some electronic devices have computer chips for ignition keys.  Other devices inhibit the flow of electricity or fuel to the engine until a hidden switch or button is activated.

Popular third layer devices include:

• Smart keys
• Fuse cut-offs
• Kill switches
• Starter, ignition and fuel disablers

Layer #4 - Tracking Device

The final layer of protection is a tracking device which emits a signal to a police or monitoring station where the vehicle is reported stolen.  Tracking devices are very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles.

Layer #5 - Watch Your Car Program   

The Watch Your Car decal program is a voluntary program whereby vehicle owners enroll their vehicles with the Utah Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).  The vehicle is then entered into a special database developed and maintained by the DMV.

Participants then display the Watch Your Car decals in the front and rear windows of their vehicles.  By displaying the decals, vehicle owners convey to law enforcement officials that their vehicle is not usually in use between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., when a majority of thefts occur.

If a police officer witnesses the vehicles in operation between these hours, they have the authority to pull it over and question the driver.  With access to the DMV database, the officer will be able to determine if the vehicle has been stolen or not.  The program also allows law enforcement officials to notify the vehicle’s owner immediately upon determination that it is being illegally operated.

With your assistance, we can continue reduce auto theft in South Jordan.  For further information on Crime Prevention Programs, please call (801) 254-4708.

Lock A Door - Stop A Thief

Give your home a fighting chance against crime.  Delaying a burglar for four minutes is usually enough to prevent entry into a house or apartment.  It is almost impossible to make a home “crime proof” but it is easy to make entry difficult and frustrate a burglar.  Just follow these tips and help take a bite out of crime.

Home and garage doors should always be locked.  More than half of all residential burglaries occur due to unlocked doors and windows. 

What You Can Do

No amount of prevention can guarantee that your car will not be stolen, but by taking a few simple precautions you can greatly reduce your chances of becoming another auto theft victim.

• Close your windows, lock your doors, conceal your valuables and take your keys.
• Use a steering column locking device.
• Engrave your vehicle ID number on your windshield.
• Use an alarm that shuts off your electrical or fuel systems when activated.
• Park your car in well lighted, well traveled areas.
• Put all packages out of sight.
• Install a hidden ignition "kill" switch.
• Park your car in your garage at home.
• Do not store spare keys in or around your vehicle.
• Participate in "Watch Your Car" anti-theft program.

Remember:

If you leave your car unlocked, leave your keys in the car, or leave your valuables in sight, your chances of becoming a victim is:
1 in 30

If you lock your car, take your keys, and conceal your valuables your chances of becoming a victim is:
1 in 1000

If you lock your car, take your keys, conceal your valuables, and use a visible anti-theft device the chances of becoming a victim is:
1 in 30,000

LOCK IT OR LOSE IT!
IT'S YOUR CHOICE!

Home Security Survey
 

Burglary and theft are crimes of opportunity.  A door that is easy to open, a dark house, or an open window or garage door, are seen as opportunities by criminals.  By thinking safety/security first, and taking some simple steps to secure your home, you can reduce these opportunities.  In doing so, you reduce the risk they present to your family and property.  Upon completion of this survey you will have made a detailed check list of your security needs.

Begin the survey by going to the end of your block and then walking toward your home.  Keep in mind that the criminal is looking for an opportunity to commit a crime, to take some of your property or get into your home.  Do you have tools, bikes, or other items sitting out?  Is your garage door open?  How about your windows and doors?  Is the gate to your backyard closed/locked?  Property maintained?  Newspapers gathering?  Look at your neighbor's property, do you provide more opportunities to criminals than your neighbor.  Does it look like you take good care of your property or will the criminal think you may be an easy target.

Survey Instructions:
   

When completing the security survey, follow the listed order when possible.  Keep in mind that there are a multitude of home floor plans and each home will be different.  The listed items correspond with the "OK" and "NI" (needs improvement).  If an item isn't included in the survey, write it in.  When the survey is completed use the items circled "NI" as a to-do list.   

Front Yard

• OK      NI                Street numbers easily visible from the street.

• OK      NI                 Bushes, shrubs, and trees pruned away from sidewalks, driveways, doors, windows, window wells, and gates.

• OK      NI                 Limited or direct access to yard.

• OK      NI                 Locks on gates, where applicable.

• OK      NI                 Lighting covers the entire front of the house and all hiding places.

Side Yards

• OK      NI                 Lighting adequately covers each entrance.

• OK      NI                 Bushes, shrubs, and trees are pruned etc.

• OK      NI                 Fence gate is secure.

Back Yard

• OK      NI                Lighting adequately covers each entrance.

• OK      NI                Bushes, shrubs and trees are pruned etc.

• OK      NI                Fence and gate is secure.

Detached Buildings

(Garages, storage sheds, barns etc.)

• OK      NI                Locks on all doors

• OK      NI                Locks on all windows

• OK      NI                Lighting on all entrances

Garage Door

• OK      NI                Keep garage door closed when not in use

• OK      NI                Garage door operating properly

• OK      NI                Change code on garage door opener periodically

• OK      NI                Garage has an internal lock    Side door to garage

• OK      NI                Door construction (solid core) (Metal clad)

• OK      NI                Dead bolt with minimum 1" throw

• OK      NI                Security strike plates

• OK      NI                Door jams secure

• OK      NI                Molding tight and secure

• OK      NI                Hinges (pins on inside or otherwise secured)

• OK      NI                Window (not recommended) – if have, covers, secured, etc.

Living Room

Front Door Entrance:

• OK      NI                Door Construction                       

                                                ( ) Solid core (hardwood 1 3/4" thickness)

                                                ( ) Metal clad

• OK      NI                Dead bolt lock with minimum 1" throw

• OK      NI                Security strike plate

• OK      NI                With a minimum of 4 screws - each 2 1/2" long

• OK      NI                Door frame secure

• OK      NI                Molding tight and secure

• OK      NI                Hinges (pins on inside or otherwise secure)

• OK      NI                Wide angle viewer (peep-hole) should be 190 degrees or better.

Double doors, all rooms all types:

• OK       NI               Stationary door secured with metal flush bolts having a minimum embedment of 5/8" into the head and threshold of the door frame.  Double doors shall also have an astragal (strong metallic cover slip) closing the space between double doors.

• OK      NI                High security (wrought iron) screen door

• OK      NI                Recommended for all exterior doors.

Windows:               ( ) Slider       ( ) Double Hung      ( ) Crank      ( ) Louver

• OK      NI                Original lock in good repair

• OK      NI                Auxiliary lock in place

                                                ( ) Pin lock

                                                ( ) Keyed lock (recommended)

• OK      NI                Anti-lift devises (Screws in track above slider to prevent lift out.)

Glazing materials:

• OK      NI               Applies to windows throughout residence

                                                ( ) Normal window glass

                                                ( ) tempered glass

                                                ( ) Plastic

                                                ( ) Lexan (Burglary resistant)

Kitchen / Utility Room

Sliding Glass Door:

• OK      NI                Original lock in good repair

• OK      NI                Anti-slide device

                                                ( ) Keyed dead bolt

                                                ( ) Charlie Bar

                                                ( ) Wood dowel

• OK      NI                Anti-lift devices (Screws in track above slider to prevent

lift out.)

Hinged Door:

• OK      NI                Door construction

                                                ( ) Solid core

                                                ( ) Metal clad

• OK      NI                Dead bolt lock with a minimum 1" throw

• OK      NI                Security strike plate

• OK      NI                Door frame secure

• OK      NI                Hinges (pins on inside or otherwise secured)

• OK      NI                Wide angle viewer (peep-hole) should be 190 degrees or better.

Double Doors, all rooms all types:

• OK      NI                See description listed above, applies to all types of double doors.

Windows:              ( ) Slider       ( ) Double Hung               ( ) Crank      ( ) Louver

• OK      NI                Original lock in good repair

• OK      NI                Auxiliary lock in place

                                                ( ) Pin lock

                                                ( ) Keyed lock (recommended)

• OK      NI                Anti-lift devises (Screws in track above slider to prevent lift out.)

Bedrooms/Den     (Make copies of this section for the bedrooms/den and other rooms)

Sliding Glass Door:

• OK      NI                Original lock in good repair

• OK      NI                Anti-slide device

( ) Keyed dead bolt

( ) Charlie Bar

( ) Wood dowel

• OK      NI                Anti-lift device (Screws in track above slider to prevent lift out.)

Hinged Door:

• OK      NI                Door construction

( ) Solid core

( ) Metal clad

• OK      NI                Dead bolt lock with a minimum 1" throw

• OK      NI                Security strike plate

• OK      NI                 Door frame secure

• OK      NI                 Hinges (pins on inside or otherwise secured)

• OK      NI                Wide angle door viewer (peep-hole) should be 190 degrees or better.

Double Door:

• OK      NI                See description listed above, applies to all types of double doors.

Windows:              ( ) Slider   ( ) Double Hung         ( ) Crank      ( ) Louver

• OK      NI                Original lock in good repair

• OK      NI                 Auxiliary lock in place

( ) Pin lock   ( ) Keyed lock (recommended)

• OK      NI                Anti-lift devises (Screws in track above slider to prevent lift out.)  

Bathrooms

Sliding Glass Door:

• OK       NI               Original lock in good repair

• OK       NI               Anti-slide device

                                                ( ) Keyed dead bolt

                                                ( ) Charlie Bar

                                                 ( ) Wood dowel

• OK       NI               Anti-lift device (Screws in track above slider to prevent lift out.)

Hinged Door:

• OK       NI               Door construction

                                                ( ) Solid core

                                                ( ) Metal clad

• OK       NI               Dead bolt lock with a minimum 1" throw

• OK       NI               Security strike plate

• OK       NI               Door frame secure

• OK       NI               Hinges (pins on inside or otherwise secured)

• OK       NI               Wide angle viewer (peep-hole) should be 190 degrees or better.

Windows:                        ( ) Slider   ( ) Double Hung         ( ) Crank   ( ) Louver

• OK       NI               Original lock in good repair

• OK       NI               Auxiliary lock in place     

( ) Pin lock   ( ) Keyed lock (recommended)

• OK       NI               Anti-lift devises (Screws in track above slider to prevent lift out.) 

Other/Miscellaneous

• OK       NI               Automatic timers for lights and radios

Burglary Alarm Systems: *Audible Alarms are preferable

• OK       NI               Monitored (Recommended)

                                                ( ) Locally (Recommended)

                                                ( ) Out of state

                                                 ( ) Not monitored

• OK       NI               Emergency numbers by each phone

• OK       NI               Grillwork/roller shields on high risk doors and windows

Operation Identification: (Click here for more information)

• OK       NI               ( ) Valuables marked with Drivers License Number?                              ( ) Inventory completed?

• OK       NI               Safe for valuables

Key control:

• OK       NI               Keep track of existing keys.  Have house re-keyed if they are lost or stolen.

• OK       NI               Joined or started a Neighborhood Watch?

Note: There are no guarantees, expressed or implied, with this inspection that will make your residence BURGLAR-PROOF, or that the recommendations will prevent any type of crime against property or persons within your residence.