Signs of Property Crimes in Columbia
Although property crime has been declining in the United States over the last two decades, it’s still a very real threat. This is especially true in the state of Missouri, where the property crime rate is higher than the national average. Crimes committed on personal or business property can range from petty theft to violent crimes and can have a serious impact on the victim. If you believe a crime may have been committed on your property, there are a few things you should look for to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. To learn more about signs of property crimes in Columbia, call our dedicated team of attorneys today.
Signs that a Crime has Been Committed on Your Property
It’s important to be aware of any indications that a crime has been committed on your property, so you can act quickly. There are a few signs that you should look out for that may indicate that a crime has been committed on your property in Columbia. If you notice any of the following, it’s possible that you’ve been the victim of a crime:
Forced Entry: Broken Windows, Doors, or Damaged Locks
One of the most obvious signs that a crime has been committed is damage to your property, like broken windows or doors. This type of damage is often an indication that someone has tried to break into your home or business.
Missing Valuables
Another sign that a crime has been committed is if you notice that valuables are missing from your property. This could include things like cash, jewelry, electronics, or other personal belongings. It can also include equipment stored on your property, perhaps in a garage or shed, like tools or machinery.
Unusual Footprints or Tire Tracks
If you notice any unusual footprints or tire tracks on your property, it’s possible that someone has been on your property without your permission. This could be a sign that someone has been casing your home or business, looking for an opportunity to commit a crime, or perhaps has already committed a crime and left evidence behind.
Flammable Liquids
If you find any flammable liquids on your property, like gasoline or lighter fluid, it’s possible that someone has tried to or has succeeded in setting fire to your property. According to Statista, there were over 35,000 incidents of arson in 2018, so this is something to be aware of.
If you notice any of these signs on your property, it’s important to act right away.
Important Steps to Take
If you believe a crime has been committed on your property in Columbia, it’s important to act immediately to protect your safety and legal rights. The first step is to call the police to file a report. You’ll also want to contact your insurance company to let them know what happened and start the claims process. It’s also a good idea to take pictures or videos of any damage or evidence that you find, as this can be helpful for the police and with filing an insurance claim or taking legal action.
Once the police have been notified, they will likely come to your property to investigate. They may dust for fingerprints or look for other evidence that can help them identify the perpetrator. If the police can identify signs that a crime occurred on the property, they will make an arrest and file charges. In some cases, the police may not be able to identify the perpetrator and the case may remain unsolved.
How to Protect Yourself After a Property Crime Has Been Committed
In addition to contacting the police, and your insurance company, if necessary, it’s also a good idea to take some basic security measures to protect your property in the future. This could include things like installing security cameras, investing in a home security system, or simply being more vigilant about locking doors and windows. Sometimes something as simple as a sign on your property stating that it is under video surveillance can be enough to deter would-be criminals. You may also want to talk with your neighbors about forming a neighborhood watch program.
If you have any concerns about your safety in Columbia, it’s also a good idea to speak to the police about taking additional precautions.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
If you’ve been the victim of a crime, it’s important to know that you have legal rights. You may be able to take civil action against the person who committed the crime, even if they haven’t been criminally charged or convicted. This type of action is known as a personal injury lawsuit, and it can help you recover damages for things like medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A personal injury lawyer in Columbia can assist with a case involving crimes committed on your home or business property in many ways. Some of these include filing a personal injury lawsuit, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, negotiating with the insurance company, and taking the case to trial, if necessary.
Contact a Columbia Attorney if You Believe a Crime Has Been Committed on Your Property
If you have any questions about what to do if you believe a crime has been committed on your property, or if you need assistance taking legal action, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. The personal injury attorneys at the Law Offices of Chris Miller have extensive experience handling personal injury claims, and we can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about the signs of property crimes in Columbia.