Barristers Place Community Assn.

Barristers Included In Area Crime Spree

Fairfax County police have confirmed that a burglary in Barristers Place shortly before Christmas was part of an area crime spree dating back to last April.  At least 11 homes, extending from Vienna to Reston, have been targeted in the late night and early morning hours.

Police say the Barristers break-in was on Statute Lane.  Entry to the home was gained through a door leading into the garage.  The owners reported the loss of cash, credit cards and a computer

The man believed to be responsible is described by police as a black male, 5'6" to 5'8" tall and weighing between 160 and 180 pounds. He has a short black mustache and a round face.  It is possible the suspct drives an early 2000 silver or light blue BMW 5 series car.

Anyone with information on the suspect or the crimes is asked to call Crime Solvers at 866 411 8477.

Here in Barristers Place we are very fortunate that we live in a relatively crime-free environment.  That's the good news.  The bad news is we often become complacent and forget basic safety precautions.  So, one more time, here is a list all residents should follow:

* Keep doors, windows, cars, and garages locked at all times. Make a special check of windows that might have been unlocked during the summer months.

*As much as possible, keep outdoor lights burning during darkness.

*Do not leave valuables out in plain sight.  This applies to the interior of your home as well as your car.

*Report any SUSPICIOUS persons or activity to police immediately.  Let police investigate.  The number to call is 911. (Just last year a burglary ring in McLean was broken up because a citizen called police about a strange car in the neighborhood.)

*Report any crimes or suspected crimes immediately to the police. Please also notify the community Association at: barristers1@cox.net

*If you plan to be away, notify police and neighbors that your home will be empty.  Arrange to stop newspaper and mail delivery.

It's unlikely that we can stop all crime in Barristers Place.  But we can make it very difficult for the criminals.  All that's needed is a little common sense.

In a related development, several mail boxes within the community were also vandalized in the last week of December.