On Monday, March 18, 2013 the Auburn Police Division arrested Fredicka Brown, age 32, of Shorter, Alabama, on warrants charging him with Burglary 3rd Degree and Theft of Property 1st Degree.  His arrest stems from the investigation of a police report dated May 16, 2011 in which a business located in the 300 block of Industry Drive reported a burglary.  A utility trailer along with assorted tools and equipment valued in excess of $20,000 was stolen.  Brown was transported to the Lee County Detention Center from Limestone County where he was being held on unrelated charges.  His bond is currently set at $8,000.

Information Source: Auburn PD

Alabama Department of Labor Commissioner Tom Surtees announced today that the Department has successfully prosecuted several Alabamians for unemployment compensation fraud. The following individuals were charged with violating the Alabama Unemployment Compensation Law by making false statements in claims for benefits:

Adam L. Stephens, of Birmingham, was tried in Jefferson County District Court on Jan. 10, 2013. An investigation by Labor’s Benefit Payment Control Section determined that Stephens received a total of $3,344 in benefits to which he was not entitled.

Stephens pled guilty and was sentenced to 12 months in jail, which was suspended, and 24 months of unsupervised probation. He was also ordered to pay a $100 fine, court costs and restitution in the amount of benefits received illegally.

Nicole L. McIntyre, of Birmingham, was tried in Jefferson County District Court on Jan. 10, 2013.

As you and your family are out enjoying the festivities of the holiday season, you are at risk of being a victim of theft in two major ways. The holiday season brings a significant increase in property theft crimes and identity theft crimes during this time of year.
 
A large number of home burglaries occur during the winter months when many homeowners are out-of-town for the holidays and the house is full of gifts received and to-be-given. Crooks will steal electronics and jewelry and even the presents under the tree.
 
“Everyone needs to make sure their homes are not an ‘easy mark’ for thieves determined to steal their holiday joy,” said Renee Carter, state director of the Alabama Insurance Information Service. "By taking some simple precautions, homeowners can prevent burglaries at this hectic time of year."
 
But in today’s technology driven society, the presents under the trees are not the only items at risk of being stolen.