Fowler Twp. residents keep sharp eye out for thieves - 21 News Now, More Local News for Youngstown, Ohio -

FOWLER TWP., Ohio - Residents in a quiet community in Trumbull County believe they are the target of thieves.

Whether it's in the daytime or night, Fowler Township has been getting hit with a lot of break-ins and thefts. In recent weeks, suspects have made off with full-sized tractors, generators and other very expensive equipment. But the small towns part-time police department can't be everywhere.

"Eight years ago, we might have had ten B&E's (breaking and entering's) a year. We are getting four and five a month now," said Police Chief Mike Currington.

Residents who are worried about their safety and their pricey farm equipment met with the chief to find out more about what's causing the rash of break-ins.

"The criminals realize we're a part time department and they realize we are so far on the outskirts of the area the sheriff can never make it here in time," said resident Mark Bockelman. "By the time they've been called the damage is done and they're gone."

While the police chief agrees that thieves may be catching on to how the small town operates, he reminds residents that crime is up everywhere.

"Warren, Youngstown, Fowler, anyplace," said Currington. "And with a combination of the economy, heroin is just huge."

Beginning this month, the department will bump up the number of hours they're on patrol but the community seems to realize the department can't do it on their own. It's going to take neighbors watching out for each other.

"At night time I try to watch and I hope they watch my place and stuff like that because that's the only way we're going to catch them," said resident Carl Hughes.

The Fowler Police Department is working with several other agencies to help investigate the thefts.

Residents are strongly encouraged if they see anything suspicious to call the police department at 330-637-7111. If the office is closed, residents can call Trumbull County Dispatch at 330-675-2730.