With recent reports of thefts and assaults in Montgomery County, residents are increasingly wary of becoming victims, whether of theft or more serious assaults. While the goal is not to live in fear, it is best to be prepared for situations that might leave us vulnerable to criminals.
Attorney Mike Seiler has been on every side of the courtroom – as prosecutor, judge, and defender – and is in a unique position to understand the psychology of a criminal. “In my experience, there is one thing that offenders have in common: opportunity,” said Seiler.
According to Seiler, 80 percent of crimes in Montgomery County are drug-related. “Criminals are either trying to get money to buy drugs, are stealing drugs or are on drugs. The only thing separating these criminals from you and me is the opportunity to commit a crime,” said Seiler. “We need to make sure we are not giving criminals the opportunity to commit crimes against us or our property.”
For example, it is common sense and common knowledge to not leave your doors unlocked. But Seiler says there are other ways criminals gain access to your house, and the vigilant homeowner can help deter criminals in a few ways:
- Get an alarm system. Criminals will pretend to be a meter reader or landscaper to check your home for alarm systems or signs of activity. Always arm your alarm when you are away, or at home alone, especially if the alarm keypad is in sight from an outside window. Be sure to post the signs and window decals provided by the alarm company.
- Leave the lights on before leaving for the evening. Don’t return to a dark home, or leave your home dark and empty for criminals to gain access. Place lights on timers whenever possible, and always keep the front and back porch lights on when you are away at night. Consider a motion-detecting outdoor security light, especially for the back and sides of the house.
- Don’t leave your garage door opener in your car. One quick crowbar strike of your car window and a burglar can have total access to your without having to unlock or force open a door or window. Additionally, if your car has a programmed garage door opener, don’t activate it if you park your car outside.
In addition to these measures, Seiler has some more expert suggestions that have proven effective in combating more serious types of crime, including assault. Women need to be especially on guard, says Seiler, and should use these practices:
- Be proactive and limit exposure. Some examples: Don’t go for a walk alone at night. When at the store, locate your keys before going into the parking lot.
- Have a dog. This is known to decrease home invasion significantly.
- Have gun range silhouettes hanging in your garage. This indicates that you are a gun owner and you know how to operate a gun.
Crime comes in all forms, but being aware of your surroundings and vigilant about your family’s safety can make all the difference. “Criminals only need the opportunity to offend, so don’t give them one,” said Seiler. “You can’t prevent all crime from happening to you, but you can minimize your exposure, be smart and be prepared.”
Mike Seiler is an attorney specializing in criminal and civil defense for Montgomery County and surrounding areas. He began his legal career as a prosecutor, where he worked for the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office for sixteen years before being appointed by Governor Rick Perry as Judge of the 435th District Court. He resigned from the bench in 2016. Today, Seiler enjoys traveling around the state of Texas representing clients in all types of cases. He is one of very few attorneys in the region that have enjoyed successful careers in all three aspects of a courtroom – prosecutor, judge and defender. For more information on Seiler, visit www.theseilerlawfirm.com or call 281-419-7770.