Construction site thefts in Cape Coral snatch over $15K in goods

Three construction site thefts all this week in Cape Coral, with the suspects getting away with more than $15K in goods.

Neighbors don’t mind the new construction here. They just want to make sure the homes are locked up and the goods are secured.

Thieves got away with more than $9K worth of appliances from two homes on the street. Residents worry insecure construction sites are enticing criminals to come to the neighborhood.

$6K worth of equipment was stolen from a site off Nelson Rd. and nearly $9K worth of appliances was stolen right out of new constructions.

Sonia Cruz is a neighbor to the construction site. She says, “You see these people working? You think they’re working, but they’re not. I don’t know how to tell.”

There aren’t any street lights in this neighborhood making it harder for neighbors to see who’s coming and going.

HP Baumeister is also a neighbor of the construction site. He says, “I personally, would lock it up. I mean, that still cannot prevent everything this way right. But you’re going to hinder a lot of people.”

The police report indicates neither of the new constructions had surveillance. One home was even left unlocked and the crooks walked right out with brand new items like stoves, refrigerators, washers, and driers.

“I’m actually in the process of putting up security cameras,” Baumeister says. “All I need now is a drill.”

Both neighbors and police are encouraging contractors to secure their sites. Making it harder for these criminals looking for an easy grab.

“At least maybe they can catch the people,” Baumeister says. ” And it also, when people see a camera, I think they are more careful.”

Cape Coral police say there have been thefts at these properties before. They’re increasing their patrols in this area. Something neighbors say, will give them some peace of mind.