Commentary - Action Line: Thefts on base

News > Commentary - Action Line: Thefts on base

Action Line: Thefts on base

Posted 12/3/2010 Updated 12/3/2010

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Commentary by Col. John T. Quintas
48th Fighter Wing commander

12/3/2010 - ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- COMPLAINT:

I feel that this is an issue that needs some attention.

In recent months, there has been an increase of thefts on and near base. We have a friend living in the dorms that recently had her $300 bike stolen on base. We've also talked to others that have had things go missing while on base.

One place that seems particularly bad is the flight line. My husband is a crew chief and has to work long hours in the cold. Every year there is an increase of thefts on the flight-line of cold weather gear. Last year most of his cold weather gear was stolen. We unfortunately can't afford to buy him more cold weather gear as we have a baby on the way. What little he had left was stolen recently while he was working.

For Airmen of lower rank and their families, it's hard to have to replace such expensive gear. Another part of base that has been hit hard recently has been the Lord's Walk housing. People have had things stolen right out of their cars or backyards. My husband caught two young teenagers a few months ago trying to get into someone's car.

I really hope someone can address this issue.

RESPONSE:

First, I'm sorry to hear about your experience on the flight line. Thank you for raising this concern as I take theft very seriously and try to do my best to reduce the problem on base and in our community. I have our Security Forces constantly patrolling all areas on base 24/7/365. Additionally, they conduct approximately 3000 foot patrols a year between the dormitories, cantonment area, and base housing, both on RAF Lakenheath and RAF Feltwell. Unfortunately, they do not have jurisdiction off base to include Lord's Walk housing. Our local constabularies continue to be our law enforcement arm in those areas. As you and others have experienced recently, despite our best efforts from a law enforcement standpoint, we continue to have a theft problem on base.

The entire Liberty team can help counter theft by doing a couple important things. First, always secure your personal and government belongings when not in use. Second, be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to our law enforcement desk at 226-EYES if on base or to your local constabulary if off base. The best way to crack down on crime is to catch the criminals!

Since January 2010, there have been 22 reported cases of on-base theft and 19 off-base. Of these 41 cases, 31 involved property that was not secured or left out in the open. Securing your property or placing out of direct sight of would-be criminals will go a long ways in helping us reduce theft.

Again, thank you for your feedback. I challenge the entire Lakenheath/Feltwell community to join with our Security Forces personnel to continue our efforts to crack down on crime!

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The Action Line is your direct link to the commander for complaints, suggestions or comments. It's not intended to replace the chain of command. When normal command agency channels haven't been able to resolve your concerns, call 226-2324, e-mail Action.Line@lakenheath.af.mil , send through distribution (48 FW/PA), mail (48FW/PA, Unit 5210 Box 215 APO AE 09461-0215) or hand carry your Action Line to the public affairs office (Building 1063).

You may remain anonymous; however, to receive a reply, please leave your name, unit, duty or home phone number and full APO mailing address. Names are confidential.

Comments

12/4/2010 3:15:59 AM ET
Prevention is obviously key in stopping these thefts. It goes without saying to lock up your outdoor items when possible and your doors on your car and home. It is a different situation when locks are being broken and items are being stolen when you are trying to work. Many on the flight-line can't wear their gear all of the time because of the maintenance they do. They should be able to put their items away without fear of them disappearing while they are trying to do their jobs.

Megynn, RAF Lakenheath

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