During the past six months, I’ve heard of (what appears to be) an increasing number of mail thefts and gas siphonings. This past winter there were siphonings on Gorsuch Road; a month or so later there was a break-in on the north end, and about a month ago there were similar occurrences on the west side. Last week there were DVDs and mailed gifts stolen on Wax Orchard. And, most recently, there were mail thefts on the south end. (Chances are there are more than just what I know.)

As yet, it hasn’t happened in my neighborhood, but unless the thieves have a compelling reason to stop, they will probably continue and perhaps escalate their thieving.

Vashon residents have a long history of working for the common good. It seems to me that if we bring this treachery out into the open, we have a better chance of catching the thieves or pushing them back into their holes. Let’s make sure that our friends and neighbors know that this is going on. It’s as easy as sending a quick group email to your neighbors and friends and asking them to do the same. It’s just a matter of making it obvious that we are all paying attention.

Certainly every theft should be reported to the King County police, but it will take individual vigilance to convince these thieves that it is no longer in their best interest to continue stealing, because we will all be watching for them.

— Devon Atkins