Editor’s note: The following information about how Polk County citizens can protect their property statement was submitted by Polk County Sheriff Donald Hill.

With todays stressful economy, people being out of work and jobless rate at all time highs, some people are turning to crime as a way of paying their bills or supporting their drug habit.

Although the sheriffs office makes every attempt to deter crime, we are unable to do it alone. In recent weeks we have experienced an influx in breaking and entering cases in the Green Creek area of the county. We need the help of all citizens, in order to deter crime and arrest those who steal from the honest citizens of this great county.

We would like to encourage all concerned citizens to call the sheriffs office (828-894-3001) or Polk County Communications (828-894-0188/911) anytime you observe any suspicious person or activities. No matter how slight your suspicions might be, it could be the tip that leads to solving several cases.

Also we would like to encourage all citizens to document serial numbers of all valuables, such as televisions, VCR/DVD players, computers, cameras, guns, lawn mowers, 4-wheelers, motorcycles and power tools. Photographing and/or video recording these items and those that do not have serial numbers such as jewelry, hand tools and furniture would also be a great help in recovering the items if they were to be stolen.

With your help, we can deter crime and hold those who choose to steal from our citizens accountable for their actions. Polk County is a beautiful and wonderful place to work and live. Together we can make it extraordinary.