Score One for the Valentine Block Watch
Last month, we were alerted by the Kansas City Police Department to be on the lookout for a thief who was targeting homes in Valentine. The thief was described as a taller white male riding a bicycle and wearing a bandanna. We were asked to call 911 immediately if we saw the guy. Two days later this thief was spotted in Valentine.
crook
Around noon on Saturday July 24th, block watch captain Ed Larson saw someone who looked suspicious walking through his neighbor’s backyard. He then heard glass break and immediately called the police.  The perpetrator broke in through a basement window and proceeded to break window/doors up to the second floor.  He had a backpack and sought out items like cameras that he could fit in the backpack. The police immediately dispatched their helicopter and apparently, the burglar heard it and quickly left the house. He snuck through a few back yards and then walked out on to the sidewalk. 

The police then arrived and were talking to Ed when they noticed someone walking down the street with a black backpack. Officer Crawford and her partner stopped the man for questioning and he turned out to be the robber. Ed says he was extremely impressed with the fast decisions that Officer Crawford made to question the man , which lead to his capture. He was also impressed with Detective Estes who came to take statements from neighbors.

The thief did, indeed, leave a bicycle leaning against the porch of the house he robbed. All of the stolen items were recovered and the home owners had no damage except for broken windows. Best of all, the suspect has been linked to other robberies and will be going to court this month. Since he’s out on probation for a previous robbery, he may be going back to jail.

This story proves that our block watch and our partnership with the Kansas City Police Department really work. Visit our block watch pages to learn more or get involved in fighting crime in Valentine.

Another Successful 4th of July
july 4

“Uncle Sam” Magaha with City Councilwoman and mayoral candidate Deb Herman and State Senator and candidate Jolie Justice.

The Valentine Neighborhood had another great 4th of July parade this year, with all kinds of kids, dogs and local dignitaries showing up for the festivities. Thanks to the Utz family for hosting the picnic and to everyone who brought a side dish and made the day a fine celebration of our neighborhood.