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Selectmen discuss recent rash of burglaries in B'stead
 
by JESSICA DEL GRECO
Contributing Writer
 
August 16, 2007
BARNSTEAD — Barnstead Board of Selectmen Chairman Frank Sullivan engaged in a heated discussion with State Trooper Mike Feinauer on the evening of Aug. 7. The topic revolved around the method of halting the recent rash of burglaries, which have affected Locke Lake Colony and more recently Parade Road.

Feinauer spoke about his effort to prevent crime by stopping drivers and identifying walkers, who may not have business in a particular area at a certain time. He stated that the gathering of information would allow him to pin-point suspects in the event of a break-in.

"I believe in civil rights," said Sullivan. "You can't just stop people for no reason." When presented with the situation of teens walking the streets, Sullivan said, "They have a right to walk around." He suggested that property owners and neighbors report any suspicious behavior to the local police. "You can't stop people without probable cause," he reiterated.

Fellow selectman Jack O'Neil disagreed, "If I'm not doing anything wrong and I get pulled over, what's the problem if there is suspicious behavior in the neighborhood." He did, however, share Sullivan's view that property owners need to protect themselves.

Selectman Ed Tasker was reticent about the issue. His only statement was, "I got a pistol, and you can publish that fact."

Selectman David Kerr asserted that he would like the Barnstead police force to be the lead agency in preventing crime, adding that it is important to have good communication with state police.

"Raising public awareness is the first step," said selectman Gordon Preston.

It was noted that residents need to start locking their cars and homes. Sullivan suggested that the board set up a community meeting at the Town Hall.

  
 

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