The Moniteau County Crime Watch had the opportunity to hear from Darren Lilleman of the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Division of Drug and Crimes Investigative Unit at its April 6 meeting, held at High Street Grill, California. Lilleman is one of 10 investigators across the state.
Lilleman made a presentation regarding the division's work on investigating reports in rural areas of animal cruelty, arson, burglaries, livestock, equipment, metal, chemical and fuel theft. They work with local law enforcement in order to bring cases to court. The harm of rural crime is estimated to be around $9 million each year.
Also provided were security tips as well as various suggestions and techniques on how to better secure a person's property and home. Lilleman recommended that everyone make an inventory of property, including serial numbers, vin numbers and photos of the property.
To help prevent theft, some very basic, common sense steps recommended are to lock house and car doors, and to remove house and car keys from easily accessible places. Others present at the meeting also shared good ideas - many of which are not expensive. Sheriff J. Gump and prosecuting Attorney Shayne Healea were present for the meeting.
The next quarterly meeting is scheduled for July 13.