Habitat crime should be a call to action

Published 12:01 am Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Crime is a part of life. We know that.

But sometimes crimes strike the most undeserving victims, and society is left only to shake their head in disgust.

When a burglar broke the window at 36 Smith St. this weekend and proceeded to cut out approximately $900 worth of copper wiring, they simply hit the wrong house.

Email newsletter signup

The house, like others in the neighborhood, is the latest Habitat for Humanity project. No one lives there yet, but it is designated for a local family.

The work isn’t complete — making it easy to get to the wiring — but the house was secured.

Now, work is delayed until an electrician can come redo what was already done. Each day is a day longer the family will have to wait on their dream house.

The money, probably $1,000 or so, will have to be re-spent, cutting into the non-profit’s funds to do other projects.

But more than anything, the latest burglary just seems very wrong.

Habitat for Humanity is a national agency that works to provide affordable housing for low-income families. The local volunteers give of their time, energy and money to reach out to those who need help.

The type person who would strike such a project is the lowest of low.

We know someone out there knows something about this and other burglaries in the area.

It’s time those who know come forth and speak. Call Crime Stoppers at 601-442-5000 to share any information you have. Even small bits of information may help law enforcement piece together the details and make an arrest.

Our community isn’t going to put up with crimes like this, and it will take all of us to make a difference.