Community Corner

Crime Remains Higher Than Normal in Rossmoor

By John Crandall

While crime in Rossmoor dropped last year, serious crime still remained unusually high for the community.

2012 saw the second highest number of total crimes and attempted crimes in the past five years, according to figures from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.

In October, the community saw its first recorded attempted murder in at least five years, when a Rossmoor jogger was stabbed multiple times. The woman survived her injuries.

The sheriff’s department released the figures at its First Quarter review of criminal activity in Rossmoor at the Rossmoor Community Services District meeting Tuesday night.

The total list of crimes include attempted murder, robbery, assault with a deadly weapon, grand theft, petty theft, vandalism, graffiti, stolen vehicles and burglaries from vehicles, commercial buildings and residences. The year had a combined total of 159 crimes and attempted crimes compared to 170 in 2011. In the previous three years total crime ranged from 110 to 122 instances.

In 2012 residential burglaries, including attempted burglaries, reached their highest level in five years with 44 burglaries, a 25 percent spike from the previous year. Conversely, thefts from vehicles, including attempted thefts from vehicles, reached their lowest level in three years with 16. In addition to the attempted murder, the community experienced two other violent crimes including a robbery and an assault with a deadly weapon. 

Statistically, 2011 remains the highest year for crime in Rossmoor with 170 incidents.

Officials say Rossmoor is safe, but residents can do more to protect themselves.

According to OCSD Lt. Rob Gunzel, one thing that would help is if residents were more cautious with important property in vehicles.  
“Thieves are opportunists,” Gunzel said to the RCSD board Tuesday night. “It would help us tremendously … if people didn’t leave their valuables in sight.”

Gunzel also urged locals to keep their doors and windows locked.

To report crime in Rossmoor, call 714-647-7000. For emergencies use 911.


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