As temperatures rise, crime heats up
The warmer months mean an increase in violent crime in Carlsbad and throughout Eddy County, law enforcement officials said.
Batteries and robberies, along with thefts from vehicles and vandalism are the most common crimes recorded in the area during that time. The number of traffic offenses are also expected to rise with heightened tourism numbers and recent continued growth in the extraction industry.
Eddy County Sheriff’s Lt. Matt Hutchinson said deputies are expecting an influx in crime in the weeks leading up to and following Memorial Day on May 29.
Crime will continue to grow through the Fourth of July, Hutchinson said, and peak during the hottest months of the year before cooling off in the fall.
“Usually this type of weather will cause an increase in violent and property crime,” he said.
Hutchinson said outdoor alcohol consumption also becomes more common during the summer, often leading to dangerous and illegal behavior.
“With an influx of people, there’s an influx of crime,” Hutchinson said. “Given the climate and the oil fields, we’re going to see an increase of people committing offenses.”
To quell the higher summer crime rates, Hutchinson said the best solution is an active and visible police presence.
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“We put more deputies on the streets,” Hutchinson said. “Crime will flourish if there isn’t a deterrent. Our deterrent is being out there on patrols. We’re out there so we don’t have a lot of people going unchecked.”
In the city of Carlsbad, police observe more crime happening at night when the temperatures remain high after sunset and criminals have the shelter of the dark.
Sgt. Eddie Duarte of the Carlsbad Police Department said the department sees more vandalism and damaged property during the summer, along with auto burglaries, especially of unlocked vehicles.
“More stuff happens in the night hours when there’s less light,” he said.
To avoid being robbed, Duarte advised residents and visitors to keep their doors locked and valuables in cars should be kept out of sight.
Civilian communication with law enforcement is also crucial to preventing crime during the most dangerous months of the year, he said.
“If you see something that looks suspicious, call the police,” Duarte said. “Secure your vehicles. Don’t leave anything visible in your car. Out of sight, out of mind.”
Adrian Hedden can be reached at 575-628-5516, achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on Twitter.
Tips to avoid being victimized during the summer
Lock doors
Be aware when out, especially at night
Keep valuables hidden in vehicles
Call police immediately if you see something suspicious
Avoid outdoor alcohol consumption