Broken Arrow Police Patrolling Construction Sites After Thieves Target New Homes

Broken Arrow police said thieves are taking advantage of the growing city by targeting construction areas when crews are not there working.

The department said a police sergeant recently caught a man in a new development with a stolen refrigerator in the back of his truck.

Broken Arrow police said officers are doing more patrols around construction sites to catch crooks.

The department said Jose Palacios stole a refrigerator from a new home near 101st and Lynn Lane on Oct. 10.

Capt. Josh McCoy said it is a crime of opportunity that police are monitoring.

"Our message is that we're aware of what's going on in these neighborhoods, the developments that are happening,” said Capt. McCoy. “Our officers are in neighborhoods every night patrolling them. If you decide to try to take that opportunity to steal from somebody else, we're going to catch you."

The number of property crimes in Broken Arrow has gone up: There were 138 cases in 2023 and 170 cases so far this year.

Thieves recently stole a new AC unit from a new home near the Rose District.

Kevin O'Brian with K.E.O. Construction said it cost him $2,800 to get a new unit for the property, and he has had so many other things stolen in his career.

"We've had countless lights and fixtures and plumbing fixtures stolen, random tile pieces stolen, trim, lumber and everything you can think of on a project,” said O’Brian.

O'Brian said it is frustrating trying to fight off thieves because on-site security would cost so much money.

"My advice would be for all of us is let's try to get our properties secured and be vigilant with each other’s properties,” said O’Brian. “Looking out for our buddies that's in the business."

Police said as Broken Arrow grows, the city wants to attract good people, not crooks.

“If you're purchasing one of these homes or you are under contract and have one of these homes built and you have your appliances stolen out of it, it doesn't feel very safe,” said Capt. McCoy. “Likewise, for the contractors and the companies that are building these homes. We want them to feel safe.”

Police said it helps to have signs in the yard with the developer's phone number so authorities can call to verify if something looks strange.

The charges for stealing depend on the value of the stolen item and whether someone broke into the property to steal. Police say it usually ranges from larceny to unlawful entry to burglary.