Over the past month, the Terrell County Sheriff’s Office has reported an increase in calls concerning break-ins into local properties, according to a recent Facebook announcement by Sheriff Thaddeus Cleveland.
Residents are urged to promptly notify the Sheriff’s Office if they become victims of a crime. “Please notify our office so we can document and process the scene,” the announcement states. The Sheriff’s Office is equipped to lift fingerprints and collect other evidence, which aids in identifying perpetrators.
The Sheriff’s Office maintains 24-hour coverage across Terrell County, with patrols concentrated in Sanderson. Sheriff Cleveland encourages residents to report any unusual activity, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in solving these crimes. “Please do not hesitate to report any and everything that raises a question in your mind. It may be what leads to finding the person or persons responsible for this activity,” the announcement reads.
For residents seeking additional security measures, the Sheriff’s Office offers to closely monitor specific properties, particularly if the owners are traveling out of town. Property checks will be logged with the date and time to ensure thorough surveillance.
While Terrell County focuses on addressing these break-ins, nearby Jeff Davis County is grappling with rising thefts, adding to regional concerns. In Jeff Davis County, thefts have been escalating for months, frustrating and worrying residents. Rancher Roy Largent recently reported the theft of his truck from his land, located less than half a mile from the sheriff’s office, further intensifying the community’s call for action.
Unlike Terrell County, the Jeff Davis County Sheriff’s Department has faced criticism for its lack of communication and transparency. Despite multiple theft reports, including Largent’s, the department has provided minimal public information or guidance. When approached by the Big Bend Times, the department declined to comment on the thefts and ongoing investigations.
David Flash, publisher of the Big Bend Times, noted several attempts to obtain information from the Jeff Davis County Sheriff’s Office, all met with limited responses. Chief Deputy Jerry Walker eventually stated, “The Jeff Davis County Sheriff’s Office does not release information concerning active investigations.”
The lack of updates and transparency has led to growing unease and frustration among residents in Fort Davis and surrounding areas. In contrast, the Terrell County Sheriff’s Office is actively engaging with the community, emphasizing the importance of reporting suspicious activities and utilizing social media for communication.
Community members in Terrell County are reminded that their cooperation and timely reporting of suspicious activities are crucial in maintaining safety and aiding in crime prevention efforts. For further assistance or to report a crime, contact the Terrell County Sheriff’s Office directly.
