Those who call Anthem home are working with Henderson police to crack down on a rash of burglaries over the past month or so.
Police say the communities of Sun City Anthem and Solera typically see one or two burglaries a month, but over the past eight weeks that number has jumped to more than 15.
"It is getting our attention," said Capt. Dane Mattoon with the Henderson Police Department.
Arnie Bellair, who lives in the Solera community, has already taken his own precautions, like placing a bolt through the rail on his garage door when he leaves town. He also has an alarm system, but says after talking to police at a crowded community meeting he is considering more changes.
"These are all protective things. I am going to investigate the laminate for the back," Bellair said.
Police said many of the burglaries involved suspects forcing their way through the front or back doors.
Officers say it appears the criminals are watching for people to leave their homes before striking.
"I think they are more of a crime of opportunity," Capt. Mattoon said.
Henderson police say they have assigned a team to look into the recent burglaries hoping to curb the increase.
"We are also increasing our patrols in those areas, because they are happening during the day," Capt. Mattoon said.
Those that attended the packed meeting at the Solera clubhouse Wednesday said they are hopeful the efforts will work. At the same time, they know they need to look out for their fellow neighbors.
"I know the cars on this street. If I see a car that doesn't belong here, I look at it, I have a phone I take a picture I take a license," Bellair said.
Police also encouraged residents to let people knocking on their doors know that someone is home, even if they are not going to answer the door, saying often times just hearing a voice will scare off a potential burglar.
