Ohio Residents Urged to Beware of Follow-Home Criminal Tactics

A new, alarming car-stalking tactic is making the rounds, adn a Kirtland Police officer is sounding the alarm after his own sister became a target. the method is disturbingly simple: criminals attach a tracking device, disguised as a cell phone, to your vehicle and then follow you home.

Kirtland Police Officer Joseph Gibson explained the hazardous ploy. “She never had a chance to see the phone being hit on top of the roof, slide down the windshield of the car and lodge onto the car. Now there is a tracking device on your vehicle,” he said, detailing how the phone, equipped with a magnet, adheres to the car’s exterior.

While this wasn’t a case handled by his department, Officer Gibson felt compelled to share the story. “My reaction as a family member and police officer,red flags were popping up,” Gibson stated,emphasizing the personal nature of the incident.

The criminals often have a well-rehearsed plan. After attaching the tracking device, they trail the victim to their residence. Once at the destination, they approach the victim, falsely claiming the device is their lost phone. This confrontation creates an possibility for them to forcibly enter the home.

Fortunately, Gibson’s sister escaped unharmed. The incident occurred on July 4th in the Cleveland area.She recounted hearing a thud against her car while out watching fireworks, initially dismissing it as a rock. Hours later,as she arrived home around 11:30 p.m.,a couple approached her driveway,claiming she had their phone. Suspicious, she refused to open the door and called 911. The couple, accompanied by two other vehicles, then fled the scene.

The following morning, his sister discovered the phone lodged onto her car. Officer Gibson offered his sister crucial safety advice: “Park your car in the garage. Change your routine. Don’t be predictable. Don’t get into a pattern of driving the same route at the same time.”

What steps can ohio residents take to protect themselves from becoming victims of follow-home crimes?

Understanding the Rising Threat of Follow-Home Crimes

Ohio has recently seen a disturbing increase in “follow-home” crimes – a tactic where criminals target individuals after they leave businesses, ATMs, or even their workplaces, following them home to commit robberies or other offenses. This isn’t just a big-city problem; reports are surfacing across the state, impacting suburban and even rural communities. Understanding how these criminals operate is the first step in protecting yourself and your family.These crimes often involve home invasion, robbery, and sometimes even carjacking.

How Follow-Home Crimes Work: A Criminal’s Playbook

Criminals employing this tactic are often opportunistic and patient. Here’s a breakdown of their typical methods:

Target Selection: They look for individuals who appear to be carrying valuables – expensive purchases, large amounts of cash, or visibly expensive belongings.

Surveillance: They discreetly observe potential victims in parking lots,at shopping centers,or leaving banks.

The Follow: Once a target is identified, they follow the victim’s vehicle, maintaining a safe distance to avoid detection.

The Interception: The criminals will typically wait until the victim is close to home, often near a secluded area or at a traffic stop, to initiate the crime.

Escalation: What begins as a potential robbery can quickly escalate to aggravated assault or even kidnapping if the victim resists.

Recognizing the Warning Signs: Are You Being Followed?

Being aware of your surroundings is crucial. Here are some red flags that suggest you might be followed:

Repeated Vehicle Sightings: Noticing the same vehicle multiple times during your commute or while running errands.

Unusual Driving Patterns: A vehicle consistently changing lanes to stay behind you, or driving at an inconsistent speed.

Feeling Uneasy: Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

Erratic Behavior: Observing a vehicle with occupants staring at you or exhibiting other suspicious behavior.

Delayed Reaction: A vehicle that seems to react to your actions – slowing down when you slow down, turning when you turn.

Immediate Actions to Take If You Suspect You’re Being Followed

Don’t drive home. Your home is where the criminals want to take you. Instead:

1. Don’t Panic: Remaining calm will help you think clearly.
2. Change Direction: Make several turns, and observe if the vehicle continues to follow.
3. Head to a Safe Location: Drive to the nearest police station,fire station,or a busy,well-lit public area like a shopping mall or 24-hour business.
4. Call 911: Report the situation to the police promptly. Provide a detailed description of the vehicle and its occupants.
5. Document Everything: If possible, safely take photos or videos of the suspect vehicle (without putting yourself in danger).

protecting Your Home: Deterring Follow-Home Criminals

Even if you successfully evade a potential follower, it’s vital to ensure your home is secure.Consider these preventative measures:

Home Security System: Install a comprehensive security system with alarms, motion detectors, and surveillance cameras. Security cameras are a important deterrent.

Exterior Lighting: Brighten up your property with motion-activated lights.

Reinforce Doors and Windows: Ensure your doors have strong locks and consider reinforcing door frames. Window locks are also essential.

Neighborhood Watch: Participate in or start a neighborhood watch program to increase community awareness and vigilance.

Trim Landscaping: Keep bushes and trees trimmed to eliminate hiding spots around your home.

Ohio law Enforcement Response & Resources

Ohio law enforcement agencies are actively addressing the rise in follow-home crimes.Several departments have increased patrols in high-risk areas and are working to educate the public about these tactics.

Ohio Attorney General’s Office: Offers resources on crime prevention and victim assistance (https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/).

Local Police Departments: check your local police department’s website for specific crime alerts and safety tips.

FBI Field Office: The FBI is also involved in investigating and tracking these types of crimes. (https://www.fbi.gov/)

Case Study: Recent Follow-Home Crime in Columbus, Ohio

In early july 2024, Columbus police reported a series of follow-home robberies targeting individuals leaving the Easton Town Center shopping area. In one instance, a victim was followed for several miles before being confronted in their driveway and robbed at gunpoint. This case highlights the