If you live in Sarpy County and plan to be gone for the holiday's, the sheriff's department will keep and eye on your house if you ask them.
Sheriff's deputy Gregory Chase tells 6 News the effort is part of their Vacation Watch Program, a free service to give homeowners an extra layer of protection while they are gone. “We will make sure we get out every day during one of the shifts,” Chase says.
Lt. Dennis Svoboda says doing this helps keep home theft numbers down. “We feel this is a success because the citizens of the county keep calling us to want to do this, must be successful if they keep calling up,” Svoboda told 6 News.
If you do leave for vacation, he says there are little things you can do to give the illusion you’re home. “Having that appearance is very important and if you can have someone take care of your lawn or snow care while you are away, you want the appearance you are home,” Svoboda says.
There's no need to worry about privacy. The sheriff's department says the only person who knows your address is the deputy assigned to check on your house. Officers assure homeowners, that they are thorough.
All of this is added work for the deputies. They check on properties when not responding to calls.
To register your home, go to the Sarpy County website