COLUMBUS (WCMH) – Spring weather is bringing more people out of their homes to visit Columbus Metro Parks.
It’s a perfect opportunity to get out of the city, hike a trail, and connect with nature.
Park rangers said, however, while people are wandering, thieves notice that all cars are left unattended trying to connect to your valuables.
“If you think about it, our visitors are excellent sacrifices,” said Larry Peck, assistant director of Columbus Metroparks. “Since the pandemic began a year ago, our number of visitors to the Metro Parks has increased by 30 percent.”
Despite the increase in traffic, Peck stated that with the exception of one area, the problems did not increase.
Fight the pandemic one by one
“The main problem we face is car break-ins,” he said. “You get out of your car and go on a lane. You’ll be gone for an hour and we have groups, some of them local, some actually from abroad, which our visitors, our rangers and they are very successful. “
Peck said several incidents were recently committed by a Florida-based group called the Felony Lane Gang.
“We work with the FBI,” said Peck. “We had a conversation with the FBI last week about one of the people they were targeting. They tied her to crimes in 25 states. It’s an operation in multiple states, and somehow they figured out Columbus Metro Parks was the place for them, and we don’t really appreciate their patronage over our parks. “
Peck said other, more well-known issues are emerging, including ATVS on park paths.
“The ATVS are certainly problematic because if they go fast they endanger people,” said Peck.
Patrols will be stepped up in the coming weeks as the weather continues to improve. Despite the problems, Peck said the parks are still safe spaces.
“Come in and communicate with nature, communicate with your friends, but don’t be disappointed,” said Peck. “Valuables – don’t take them to the park. If you bring them to the park, secure them before you get into the park. Be aware of your surroundings. If you see any suspicious people, please let our rangers know. Our rangers carry cell phones in every park. Just don’t settle down. “
