The Watch with Will Kennedy: How to Prevent Home Invasions

November 13, 2015

CHARLOTTE, NC — Residential and violent crime are on the rise in Charlotte.

You may not be safe in your own home, even during daylight hours, even in what many consider to be safe neighborhoods. But CMPD says there are ways you can protect yourself from potential home invasions.

“If you see suspicious vehicles, or people in a neighborhood that don’t belong, call 911,” says CMPD Officer Chris Kopp.

It’s a combination of crimes: burglary, robbery, assault with a deadly weapon and even homicide. Home invasions are on the rise in Charlotte, up almost 50 percent this year. The statistics show the criminals are often younger men, specializing in home invasions and working in well organized groups.

“When people are walking around the neighborhood, knocking on multiple doors, and they’re obviously not there to sell anything, we need to call the police,” says Kopp.

That was the scenario last week in East Charlotte when Semantha Bunce was at home, 9:30 in the morning, taking care of her 4-month-old baby. Two suspects knocked on her door, then kicked it in when she didn’t answer. She used a gun to fight off the intruders, but was shot twice in the process.

But not everyone has a gun at home. And not every door is made to withstand an assault. CMPD Officer Chris Kopp with the Crime Prevention Unit says buying expensive locks may not protect you.

“You want to reinforce those locks with bigger screws,” Officer Kopp. “You want to make it harder to kick in the door. And if you are home, there are even certain devices you can get to stop the door from opening. You know, strike plates, or bars in sliding glass doors, all kinds of things that are out there.”

There are also simple ways to protect your home whether you’re there or not. You’ve heard these before: leave on a radio, TV or a light.

“Something that just gives the impression that somebody is inside the house, because the criminals are looking for houses that don’t have somebody in it,” says Officer Kopp. “They’re looking for, you know, the easy score.”

A Gofundme.com page in support of Semantha Bunce has raised more than $58,000 for her recovery. She is doing well, and hopes to be home from the hospital soon.