Residents on Riveredge Road in Billerica, Mass., Under Fire

Due to the lack of jobs during this recession, people have turned to thefts in this small quite town north of Boston. Recently, residents have come "under fire" due to this rise in burglaries, motor vehicle thefts, and home invasions. Billerica Police Department have received a countless number of calls pertaining to these issues at hand.

Police Chief, Gary J. Gemme confirms that there has been a rise in criminal activities around the whole town of Billerica, Mass., due to the recession and loss of jobs. "This is the worst it has been in over three years", states Police Chief Gary J. Gemme. "Until jobs are reinstated and people have some income coming in, I do not expect this to end. We just need to step up our patrols and be more aware as police officers", concludes Police Chief Gary J. Gemme.

Residents on Riveredge Road in Billerca, Mass., are also trying to understand and question why people are resorting to thefts and violence in response to the decline in jobs and income. One resident, Ms. Antoinette McDaniel, spoke to this reporter about her recent "run in" with an attempt someone made to steal her motor vehicle. She states that, "If it was not for my car alarm, I believe that they would have gotten away with stealing my car." Ms. McDaniel also stated that, "Yes my car doors were unlocked, however we never have had this problem (in this part of Billerica) before. So I figured that it was alright, but never again will I leave my car doors or my house doors unlocked."

In a second brief interview with another resident, whom resides on Riveredge Road and would like to remain anonymous, he states his recent "run in" with thieves. He states, "I was at work when I got a call from my neighbor whom told me that they had to call the police for someone was trying to break into my home. I was shocked and appalled at this because for the many years that I have lived there (on Riveredge Road) nothing like this ever happened." He also added, "The people and surroundings are so quite and peaceful there that we feel there is no need to be afraid or alarmed for those kinds of crimes seemed to only happen in bigger towns and cities. "

In a brief interview with Sergeant Steve Elmore, he had this to state: "Break-ins and thefts have been reported in the after hours, as well as daytime hours, all over the town. However, I would advise for all residents to keep there doors and windows locked and secured. As well as be aware of the surroundings around you", states Sergeant Steve Elmore of the Billerica Police Department. "If we (patrons, residents, and law enforcement) work together, we can beat this rising crisis and make the streets safe for all", concludes Sergeant Steve Elmore.

If this is what we are to expect from the Obama Administration, this reporter fears the outcome of the futures of much bigger towns and cities. If this sort of crime exists and is on the rise here, then no town or city is safe from this "plague." In this reporters opinion, "People just need to understand that this is not the way to thus survive these hard times. After all we all are facing these hard times and no one is immune."