Coyote Alert
We have quite a few sightings of a single coyote, and on occasion multiple coyotes, prowling through the Atlantic Garden Homes and then sauntering up Windward and going behind the homes on Halyard.
What is of special concern is that these typically noc- turnal predators have become emboldened, and are casually and confidently moving about during daylight hours. As a species these animals are skilled hunters, but they yield to temptation when food sources such as pet food are left out- side and unsecured. Other easy pickings for them are small animals left outside in a rear or side yard while its human remains inside.
Another surprisingly easy source of nourishment for a hungry coyote is dog droppings. According to experts, coyotes are attracted to and will explore doggie scat look- ing for undigested morsels of food.
Animal Services personnel will not respond to coyote sightings. It is nearly impossible to trap coyotes as they are just too smart. These wily animals are members of the wolf family and are a “protected species.” As such, they fall under the purview of the Department of Fish and Game, and that department will not normally dispatch an officer unless a human is seriously harmed.
Hopefully, by monitoring our pets, their food, and pick- ing up their waste we will make our community less attrac- tive to coyote predators and consequently have a healthier and safer neighborhood.
Securitas Limitations
The Securitas personnel that staff and control access at the front gate and provide patrol services are limited in the scope of the duties they are allowed to perform. They are specifically responsible for controlling gate access, parking enforcement, and enforcement of administrative rules pertaining to common areas.
Beyond that, they lack any authority other than that of an ordinary citizen. They are further restricted from enter- ing private property. Lacking “Police Powers,” they can- not even stop people engaged in highly suspicious activity without seeing that they committed a crime.
Is there a Neighborhood Watch program in our future? The state’s population continues to grow. The penalties for once serious crimes have been watered down to next to nothing. Because of overcrowding, jail sentences have been drastically cut. The state has not built a new jail in years. Folks that normally would have been incarcerated are out on the streets and perhaps even entering our community. Our walls and security cameras might not keep them all out. Our Securitas personnel, unless they see someone in the act of committing a crime, can’t and shouldn’t stop folks to investigate their conduct or presence in our community. What can we do?
Programs wherein neighbors network with each other, and work with law enforcement, have proven most effec- tive in preventing crime for the past forty-five years. In an effort to be as proactive as possible on each issue, our staff is working with our Sheriff’s Department to develop a uniquely designed program for our community. You should hear more on this in the near future. In the mean- time, think about your ability to be part of it.
—God Bless . . . Tim Murphy
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