The Heathwood West neighborhood has had several robberies recently and a special meeting was held at 6pm on July 15 at Eastminister Presbyterian Church.


Around 200 concerned neighbors attended to share concerns and information about a series of burglaries in the Heathwood community in 2009. There have been 8 reported breakins in the area with an estimated over $70,000.00 primarily in jewelry, but also guns, electronics, china and other high value items being stolen. The burglaries occurred during daylight hours when homeowners were out of town, and access was usually through a rear door. The homes were equipped with alarm systems including wireless systems which were disabled. No fingerprints were found.

According to the police investigators, these facts point to an organized and professional group of criminals. At this time, there are no suspects.

Assistant City Manager Mike King, Police Chief Tandy Carter, Criminal Investigator Captain Dodson and Captain Hendrix of the South Region all emphasized the value of Neighorhood Watches and being "nosy neighbors" to monitor neighborhood activity and report suspicious behavior, individuals and vehicles. These should be immediately reported by calling 911.

City Council person Belinda Gergel attended the meeting an stated that these incidents are being followed closely by City Council.

For more information and discussion, see the Heathwood West Google group at http://groups.google.com/group/heathwood-west

Police report on the burglaries: http://www.sherwoodforestneighbors.org/pdf/Heathwood Burglaries.pdf.