People parked at Lake Sumter

[DDoug]

Really sorry for all the people that parked in the parking lot behind Sumter that went on the Rocky and Roller cruise . About 6 or so car windows were broken out . Dont know why people have to be so destructive.

[Madelaine Amee]

Really sorry for all the people that parked in the parking lot behind Sumter that went on the Rocky and Roller cruise . About 6 or so car windows were broken out . Dont know why people have to be so destructive.

I was shopping over there yesterday and happened to park in that lot. I saw several cars with plastic, or something, taped over their rear windows, had no idea what had happened. To think of vandalism like that in TV makes me sick, never thought I would see it. Disgraceful! I imagine there will a larger police presence from now on!

[justjim]

Just wonder if anything was taken out of the cars? Just for fun---breaking windows?

[buggyone]

Really sorry for all the people that parked in the parking lot behind Sumter that went on the Rocky and Roller cruise . About 6 or so car windows were broken out . Dont know why people have to be so destructive.

Obviously teens visiting their grandparents who did not have enough to enjoy. Of course, it could have been the young people from the surrounding areas like Lady Lake or Wildwood.

Yesterday at the Chili Cookoff while I was exiting a parking lot by the bookstore, a golf cart of teens came speeding into the lot. One of the teens was even standing in the back of the cart as it was going well above the 20 mph limit for carts.

[NotGolfer]

Off subject....today we were returning from SS on the Morse St. bridge...met about 4 or 5 larger more all-terrain type vehicles driven by young folks. The machines were loud, had big tires on it. Never have seen anything like them before!!

[paulandjean]

Hey what can you say,"Boys will be Boys". Not sure until more facts arrive.

[DDoug]

Thats the problem the attitude boys will be boys. Seems that is how it is every where ,Oh well. Yes we probably do need more police. The bad part the people in that lot left their addresses and names in the window who's idea was tat . I think there should be a 4pm curfew for anyone under 18. See how that goes over

[CFrance]

Thats the problem the attitude boys will be boys. Seems that is how it is every where ,Oh well. Yes we probably do need more police. The bad part the people in that lot left their addresses and names in the window who's idea was tat . I think there should be a 4pm curfew for anyone under 18. See how that goes over

Huh? Do you mean the. People who did the damage left their names and addresses? I don't understand.

And I don't think it's right to assume somebody'sgrand kids did this. No supporting facts. Innocent until proven guilty, and all that...

[janmcn]

I don't buy the somebody's grandkids did it. What would they use to break the windows? It had to have happened late at night when nobody was around. Kids horsing around might break one window, but to break six means somebody was making a point...like a waiter that was stiffed on a check or a clerk in a store that had picked clothes up off the floor for the last time.

One other point is why did people leave their cars in a public parking lot and not at home safe in their garages?

[paulandjean]

Thats the problem the attitude boys will be boys. Seems that is how it is every where ,Oh well. Yes we probably do need more police. The bad part the people in that lot left their addresses and names in the window who's idea was tat . I think there should be a 4pm curfew for anyone under 18. See how that goes over

Maybe I should of said,"Dumb boys with be Dumb boys if they left their addresses and names in the window,as YOU say. If they are that "Dumb" a 4 pm curfew will not work.

[rayschic]

i think the OP meant that the people who owned the cars (and went on the cruise) left their name and address NOT the people that broke the windows ! Not a good idea, anyway.

[gomoho]

I am curious who went and covered the broken windows with plastic? Good thing someone was watching out for these folks.

[anarick]

This is terrible. Something should be done to prevent such criminal behavior.
Don't they have security camera's in the area? If not, maybe they should put them up.

[DougB]

Not sure why anyone would jump to the conclusion it was teens.

[rayschic]

We went on a cruise a few years ago, leaving on a bus from The Villages. Everyone was told to park in a specific lot and the cops would make extra passes and make sure our cars were OK. So probably, the cops saw the damage and put the plastic in the windows. I'm sure we will hear more since there were several TOTVers that went on the Rocky and the Rollers cruise. Anyone know when they get back ?

[paulandjean]

Not sure of this whole story.

[unknown*server]

I don't buy the somebody's grandkids did it. What would they use to break the windows? It had to have happened late at night when nobody was around. Kids horsing around might break one window, but to break six means somebody was making a point...like a waiter that was stiffed on a check or a clerk in a store that had picked clothes up off the floor for the last time.

One other point is why did people leave their cars in a public parking lot and not at home safe in their garages?

REALLY? Do you think that the workers that wait and serve you are secretly vindictive and so inclined to take out their frustrations by breaking windows? Maybe it was a villager who did it, because they were jealous that they couldn't afford the trip. (and that was said in jest, just to make a point as to how asinine assumptions can be)

[KathieI]

We went on a cruise a few years ago, leaving on a bus from The Villages. Everyone was told to park in a specific lot and the cops would make extra passes and make sure our cars were OK. So probably, the cops saw the damage and put the plastic in the windows. I'm sure we will hear more since there were several TOTVers that went on the Rocky and the Rollers cruise. Anyone know when they get back ?

they got back from the cruise yesterday morning. My friend went and I haven't heard any of this from her (as yet anyway).

[Bogie Shooter]

This is terrible. Something should be done to prevent such criminal behavior.
Don't they have security camera's in the area? If not, maybe they should put them up.

How would security camera's prevent this from happening??

[graciegirl]

It makes me sad and angry to hear that someone vandalized those cars.

I am sure that whoever did it will be caught. They have a lot of cameras around. That is how they caught the sub contractor who was stealing appliances out of new homes.they caught him on tape...He is now safely locked away.


I can't help but think it was kids. Probably the same vandals who messed up the restrooms at Lake Sumter Landing, you know. the cute ones near the water in pastel colors that look like Cabanas. The same night that vandals did something to several golf carts outside the golf cart store a few months back.

They will get caught, you wait and see.

[anarick]

How would security camera's prevent this from happening??

Bogie
An inexperienced criminal may be deterred by the video surveillance, it is a known fact of human nature that being watched will make a person behave more respectfully. If a crime is committed and caught by a camera it can be made available to the authorities to help them catch the criminal/s.
Also, it's better than nothing.

[Happinow]

It is disappointing and very disturbing that cars were damaged at Sumter. I was so hoping that I could live in the bubble and be free of all that crazy stuff. I left where I use to live in part because of such nonsensical actions. Hopefully they will be caught!! Back to my bubble.....

[The Buckeyes]

I sure do hope this was caught on camera.

[btf2008]

Hey folks...don't let our litte piece of paradise create a false sense of security. This happens frequently, especially in new neighborhoods. It is only a matter of time until thieves and scammers find us and take advantage of us. Don't be surprised if the owners of those vehicles are revictimized due to most of us keeping personal info in the glove box. i.e... vehicle registrations, insurance cards, etc. And if it is recommended to leave your name and address posted on the vehicle window in order to park there while on a cruise or whatever, then leave your car at home and find a ride.

Keep your registration and insurance card in your purse or wallet because you almost always have them with you when you drive. Just keep them folded neatly with your drivers license, COPS appreciate that! And take those garage receipts and put them in a folder in your garage/home. There is a lot of useful information on them if they end up in the wrong hands.

If criminals find easy scores/victims they most certainly come back. Lets not give them the opportunity...stay Vigilant.

FYI...
:police:

[Bill32]

wonder when the citizen patrols will start

[BobnBev]

Not sure why anyone would jump to the conclusion it was teens.

You're right!!!! I saw 4 old ladies and 2 old guys in wheelchairs and they all had hammers....but I don't want to jump to conclusions. :oops::swear::cus::MOJE_whot:

[Happinow]

It just occurred to me that most of our cars have alarms on them. Maybe I'm confused, but when we push the button to lock our car doors doesn't it automatically set an alarm? If so, then it seems that alarms would be going off left and right while these destroyers were in action. Maybe I'm wrong and the push of our button only locks the doors and not alarming them?? Mine has a red blinking light that comes on that says security when I lock the door. I thought that was the alarm....

[Bill-n-Brillo]

It just occurred to me that most of our cars have alarms on them. Maybe I'm confused, but when we push the button to lock our car doors doesn't it automatically set an alarm? If so, then it seems that alarms would be going off left and right while these destroyers were in action. Maybe I'm wrong and the push of our button only locks the doors and not alarming them?? Mine has a red blinking light that comes on that says security when I lock the door. I thought that was the alarm....

If I read things right, the cars' windows were broken but the cars weren't entered. A car alarm would need a shock sensor or a glass break detector as part of the system in order to trip the alarm. Some alarms will detect just doors opening, for example.

Bill :)

[Gerald]

Incase you are not aware the public bathroom at the same location has been vandalized also. They were caught on video. Don't know the outcome.
The villages will not do anything about it because they make money on these people coming into the stores and movies. All I can think of is don't park over night anywhere except your own home.

[graciegirl]

Incase you are not aware the public bathroom at the same location has been vandalized also. They were caught on video. Don't know the outcome.
The villages will not do anything about it because they make money on these people coming into the stores and movies. All I can think of is don't park over night anywhere except your own home.

I think that is the very reason that "The Villages" will do something about it.

Why wouldn't the responsible parties be VERY concerned? Everything else is so well managed.

Gracie, the apologist.
Boy Howdy.

I am absolutely certain it is a bunch of kids vandalizing those places. And I DON'T think that this place has become dangerous. AND I betcha they will catch them.

[JoeC1947]

I think that is the very reason that "The Villages" will do something about it.

Why wouldn't the responsible parties be VERY concerned? Everything else is so well managed.

Gracie, the apologist.
Boy Howdy.

I am absolutely certain it is a bunch of kids vandalizing those places. And I DON'T think that this place has become dangerous. AND I betcha they will catch them.

I don't know you can be "absolutely certain" it was a bunch of kids unless you saw it? What is your definition of a kid?

[2BNTV]

It is very disappointing to hear of this vandalism. I certainly hope this is an isolated episode. I would like to think people are safe when going to the squares and not have to deal with something of this nature.

Being a realistist, stuff happens.

[graciegirl]

I don't know you can be "absolutely certain" it was a bunch of kids unless you saw it? What is your definition of a kid?

I am absolutely certain because I am old...well old enough to draw that conclusion;) As Rubicon often says.

"I opine, you decide."

And as Russ Boston has said.

"I could be wrong."

WHO do you think did it??

OH and my definition of a kid is someone under 25.

[memason]

I have read through the Sumter Police Blotter and have not been able to find anything about vandalism to any vehicles in LSL. Other than TOTV, I've not seen or read anything about the stated damage to cars. Not saying it didn't happen, I just can't find any evidence of it.

If anyone finds anything, please post it for us to read...

[rtime]

What web page are your finding your info on, I couldn't find a Sumter County Police blotter on the web.

Thanks,

[USSGompers]

What is scary is that if it is true that the owners of the cars had to put their personal info on the window, such as name and address, etc., it would have been so easy for the 'window breaker' to have reached into the car and grab the garage door opener.

Then when the travelers arrived back to their cars, no only would they have been heart-broken about their cars, they would have returned to a ransacked home.

Oh my, not good at all!!!

[PaPaLarry]

Hey folks...don't let our litte piece of paradise create a false sense of security. This happens frequently, especially in new neighborhoods. It is only a matter of time until thieves and scammers find us and take advantage of us. Don't be surprised if the owners of those vehicles are revictimized due to most of us keeping personal info in the glove box. i.e... vehicle registrations, insurance cards, etc. And if it is recommended to leave your name and address posted on the vehicle window in order to park there while on a cruise or whatever, then leave your car at home and find a ride.

Keep your registration and insurance card in your purse or wallet because you almost always have them with you when you drive. Just keep them folded neatly with your drivers license, COPS appreciate that! And take those garage receipts and put them in a folder in your garage/home. There is a lot of useful information on them if they end up in the wrong hands.

If criminals find easy scores/victims they most certainly come back. Lets not give them the opportunity...stay Vigilant.

FYI...
:police:
Good idea!!!!!!

[DougB]

I have read through the Sumter Police Blotter and have not been able to find anything about vandalism to any vehicles in LSL. Other than TOTV, I've not seen or read anything about the stated damage to cars. Not saying it didn't happen, I just can't find any evidence of it.

If anyone finds anything, please post it for us to read...

Even if it didn't happen, I am sure there are those who will say it is kids to blame.

[graciegirl]

Even if it didn't happen, I am sure their are those who will say it is kids to blame.

:a20::1rotfl::clap2:

[Down Sized]

It is disappointing and very disturbing that cars were damaged at Sumter. I was so hoping that I could live in the bubble and be free of all that crazy stuff. I left where I use to live in part because of such nonsensical actions. Hopefully they will be caught!! Back to my bubble.....

THINGS ARE CHANGIN' :cryin2:

[Bogie Shooter]

Incase you are not aware the public bathroom at the same location has been vandalized also. They were caught on video. Don't know the outcome.
The villages will not do anything about it because they make money on these people coming into the stores and movies. All I can think of is don't park over night anywhere except your own home.

You don't really believe this, do you?

[memason]

What web page are your finding your info on, I couldn't find a Sumter County Police blotter on the web.

Thanks,

OK....My Bad! When I went back to look at the web address for the police blotter, I discovered it was for SUMTER, SC., not Sumter County, Fl.

I was not able to find a Sumter County, Fl. police blotter on the web....

[Indydealmaker]

OK....My Bad! When I went back to look at the web address for the police blotter, I discovered it was for SUMTER, SC., not Sumter County, Fl.

I was not able to find a Sumter County, Fl. police blotter on the web....

Now I don't feel so dumb. I did the same thing.

[cwnavy1]

My car was one vandalized. None were entered and most had only the rear glass broken, but at least one had the drivers window broken. The sheriff's dept put plastic over our windows, and were there to meet us when the buses arrived on Saturday. No evidence or suspects yet, we were told.

[gerryann]

Sorry you had to come home to that. Did you have a fun cruise?

[JC and John]

What is scary is that if it is true that the owners of the cars had to put their personal info on the window, such as name and address, etc., it would have been so easy for the 'window breaker' to have reached into the car and grab the garage door opener.

Then when the travelers arrived back to their cars, no only would they have been heart-broken about their cars, they would have returned to a ransacked home.

Oh my, not good at all!!!

Hubby and I went on the cruise and left our car at LSL as instructed. NO WHERE in the literature given us was instruction to put your name and address in the windshield. We were given an orange piece of paper to put on the dashboard and that is all. Luckily our car was OK. Sorry the others came home from a wonderful time to find their cars with broken windows.

[Hangin on]

Putting your name etc. on your windshield is never a good idea. The people that broke the windows would now know an unoccupied home they can go to. The police can get the address through the Villages if needed.

[senior citizen]

In reading all of these posts, I was wondering how difficult it is to actually break a rear window on most vehicles?? Would the vandals need a hammer or some such tool?

[paulandjean]

Hubby and I went on the cruise and left our car at LSL as instructed. NO WHERE in the literature given us was instruction to put your name and address in the windshield. We were given an orange piece of paper to put on the dashboard and that is all. Luckily our car was OK. Sorry the others came home from a wonderful time to find their cars with broken windows.

Thats why I like all the facts first. They said nobody left name and addresses on the front window.Nearly everyone jumps to conclusions so quickly on this site.

[graciegirl]

Thats why I like all the facts first. They said nobody left name and addresses on the front window.Nearly everyone jumps to conclusions so quickly on this site.

You are absolutely right.

The facts so far.

Several back windows and one side window were broken in cars left at Lake Sumter Landing parking lot while owners were on a cruise.

Owners did NOT leave their addresses in car window.

The sheriffs department covered the broken windows with plastic.

The perps have NOT been caught.


And I too am very sorry this happened to all of you.

I feel sure that efforts have been doubled to protect property and solve this problem.

I feel very sure because I have jumped to that conclusion because everything else shows me that people are doing their jobs in this area where I live.

Edited and added later..And JoeC, I read your post below and have changed my mind. I don't think it was kids it was someone bad looking for something to steal. It could have been younger or older folks but they are criminals and I have to think that that area is being watched now, so hope they get caught. SOON.

[senior citizen]

My car was one vandalized. None were entered and most had only the rear glass broken, but at least one had the drivers window broken. The sheriff's dept put plastic over our windows, and were there to meet us when the buses arrived on Saturday. No evidence or suspects yet, we were told.

Sorry to hear about the damage to your vehicle. Even with insurance, car repairs are mighty expensive these days.

I was wondering if TV has a patrol car out "after hours" or overnight?
I realize they cannot be everywhere..........but......

[JoeC1947]

Edited and added later..And JoeC, I read your post below and have changed my mind. I don't think it was kids it was someone bad looking for something to steal. It could have been younger or older folks but they are criminals and I have to think that that area is being watched now, so hope they get caught. SOON.

Good, jumping to conclusions without facts is never a good thing and I agree with you..

[paulandjean]

Somethings you just have to look at the crowd at the squares. Very easy to spot and pick out people,up to no good. One villager for years was up to no goood everytime he was at LSL,he was on for a mistake by another person.

[justjim]

Somethings you just have to look at the crowd at the squares. Very easy to spot and pick out people,up to no good. One villager for years was up to no goood everytime he was at LSL,he was on for a mistake by another person.

:police: We have always felt safe at the Squares. An isolated random incident won't change our feeling of safety around the squares-----that occurred in the middle of the night. P and J I'm not sure you can always "judge" people by just their "looks.".---don't mean to imply that we shouldn't be careful when we are out and about, however, some things are beyond our control.

[paulandjean]

:police: We have always felt safe at the Squares. An isolated random incident won't change our feeling of safety around the squares-----that occurred in the middle of the night. P and J I'm not sure you can always "judge" people by just their "looks.".---don't mean to imply that we shouldn't be careful when we are out and about, however, some things are beyond our control.

Sorry, but you can pick out people,who are there for bad behavior. I "track" people all the time.Maybe its my background. Its is easy to check peoples behavior by just watching.

[eremite06]

FYI. My wife and I have seen two young adults with backpacks riding bikes at night, through the Belvedere gate. They looked suspicious to us. Just wondered where they came from and where they were going.

Not insinuating anything, just wondering.

[Bogie Shooter]

FYI. My wife and I have seen two young adults with backpacks riding bikes at night, through the Belvedere gate. They looked suspicious to us. Just wondered where they came from and where they were going.Not insinuating anything, just wondering.

You would get more information by calling Village Watch rather than posting on TOTV. If you think it is suspicious, call Village Watch.

[Indydealmaker]

Thats why I like all the facts first. They said nobody left name and addresses on the front window.Nearly everyone jumps to conclusions so quickly on this site.

Actually, this does not say that No One put their personal information on their dash, just that no one was instructed to do so.

[paulandjean]

actually, this does not say that no one put their personal information on their dash, just that no one was instructed to do so.

"huh"

[Irish Rover]

Remember the good old days when you only worried about parking your golf cart on the "edges" of TV? Some golf clubs were taken, a few carts stolen, and then as the population increased we began to see garages being invaded, homes broken into, etc. With 80,000 people in TV we will see big city problems no matter what the demographic of TV is. February and March will be exceptionally bad because of Spring Break being thrown into the equation and grandparents being much more permissive than parents. Just thought I'd throw this in for a conversation point.
Like Russ says "I could be wrong".
Keep it in the short grass.

[jnieman]

I wouldn't leave my car parked in an unattended lot for longer than a few hours. When we went on our cruise we had someone drop us off and pick us up. With the limited parking in the Villages anyhow, it doesn't make sense to leave cars there that are just sitting for a week.

[eremite06]

You would get more information by calling Village Watch rather than posting on TOTV. If you think it is suspicious, call Village Watch.

What kind of info do you think I'll get from Village Watch? My dealings with them have proved to be fruitless.

[jbdlfan]

My car was one vandalized. None were entered and most had only the rear glass broken, but at least one had the drivers window broken. The sheriff's dept put plastic over our windows, and were there to meet us when the buses arrived on Saturday. No evidence or suspects yet, we were told.

So much for the DS posting all that happens.....I would think this might be something we should know about.

[Bogie Shooter]

What kind of info do you think I'll get from Village Watch? My dealings with them have proved to be fruitless.

I don't know what your prior dealings have been.
If not Village Watch then call the Sumter County Sheriff.

[redwitch]

Think I'll get a few people mad, but here goes -- This has got to be one of the most pathetic threads I've seen on here. Cars were vandalized. Not broken into, nothing stolen, so far as we know. There have been no reports of homes broken into after this incident.

People were blamed for leaving their cars in the lot while cruising. Why not blame whomever arranged the cruise and recommended parking there? People want more security, cameras, citizens patrols, the whole nine yards. This was a sad incident. We do have pretty good security. The police are a very active presence in TV. Community Watch, while pretty worthless in the whole, are visible. Not sure we really need more than we have.

People here have doubted it has happened, blamed servers and other workers of businesses; kids; "bad guys". All without one single fact. Comments about "suspicious" kids riding bikes with backpacks on Belvedere (probably workers going home at the end of their shift, but hey).

We finally get someone whose car was vandalized. Now it is believed. We have no facts, a lot of supposition. So, here's my supposition -- it was vandalism, plain and simple. Something very easy for one or two people to do with a heavy instrument or rock. Odds are it was probably kids. Odds of catching them is pretty slim (unless they're dumb enough to do it again and get caught).

How about we stop the blame game and the paranoia? How about we commiserate with those whose cars were damaged? We're a large community, things are going to happen. Fortunately, less happens here than in most communities our size. Do be vigilant. Stupidity and carelessness helps no one but let's not go overboard.

[Bogie Shooter]

Think I'll get a few people mad, but here goes -- This has got to be one of the most pathetic threads I've seen on here. Cars were vandalized. Not broken into, nothing stolen, so far as we know. There have been no reports of homes broken into after this incident.

People were blamed for leaving their cars in the lot while cruising. Why not blame whomever arranged the cruise and recommended parking there? People want more security, cameras, citizens patrols, the whole nine yards. This was a sad incident. We do have pretty good security. The police are a very active presence in TV. Community Watch, while pretty worthless in the whole, are visible. Not sure we really need more than we have.

People here have doubted it has happened, blamed servers and other workers of businesses; kids; "bad guys". All without one single fact. Comments about "suspicious" kids riding bikes with backpacks on Belvedere (probably workers going home at the end of their shift, but hey).

We finally get someone whose car was vandalized. Now it is believed. We have no facts, a lot of supposition. So, here's my supposition -- it was vandalism, plain and simple. Something very easy for one or two people to do with a heavy instrument or rock. Odds are it was probably kids. Odds of catching them is pretty slim (unless they're dumb enough to do it again and get caught).

How about we stop the blame game and the paranoia? How about we commiserate with those whose cars were damaged? We're a large community, things are going to happen. Fortunately, less happens here than in most communities our size. Do be vigilant. Stupidity and carelessness helps no one but let's not go overboard.

Great! So much common sense in your posting. Unfortunately there are some on TOTV who will still disagree and put forth their wild explanations. Example, TV won't prosecute because it would reduce the number of people coming to the squares to buy from the stores...................

[graciegirl]

Think I'll get a few people mad, but here goes -- This has got to be one of the most pathetic threads I've seen on here. Cars were vandalized. Not broken into, nothing stolen, so far as we know. There have been no reports of homes broken into after this incident.

People were blamed for leaving their cars in the lot while cruising. Why not blame whomever arranged the cruise and recommended parking there? People want more security, cameras, citizens patrols, the whole nine yards. This was a sad incident. We do have pretty good security. The police are a very active presence in TV. Community Watch, while pretty worthless in the whole, are visible. Not sure we really need more than we have.

People here have doubted it has happened, blamed servers and other workers of businesses; kids; "bad guys". All without one single fact. Comments about "suspicious" kids riding bikes with backpacks on Belvedere (probably workers going home at the end of their shift, but hey).

We finally get someone whose car was vandalized. Now it is believed. We have no facts, a lot of supposition. So, here's my supposition -- it was vandalism, plain and simple. Something very easy for one or two people to do with a heavy instrument or rock. Odds are it was probably kids. Odds of catching them is pretty slim (unless they're dumb enough to do it again and get caught).

How about we stop the blame game and the paranoia? How about we commiserate with those whose cars were damaged? We're a large community, things are going to happen. Fortunately, less happens here than in most communities our size. Do be vigilant. Stupidity and carelessness helps no one but let's not go overboard.


Well said, Friend!

[RedChariot]

It is disappointing and very disturbing that cars were damaged at Sumter. I was so hoping that I could live in the bubble and be free of all that crazy stuff. I left where I use to live in part because of such nonsensical actions. Hopefully they will be caught!! Back to my bubble.....

I am also disappointed when hearing this type of report. I thought I was getting a really safe community when we bought here. It turned out otherwise. Refrain from an attack here. You that believe everything here and the developer are the best thing since sliced bread. JMHO.

[Bogie Shooter]

I am also disappointed when hearing this type of report. I thought I was getting a really safe community when we bought here. It turned out otherwise. Refrain from an attack here. You that believe everything here and the developer are the best thing since sliced bread. JMHO.

Not sure what it has to do with the developer?
I think it is pretty naive to think that a random act of violence could not happer here............or anywhere else.
Not an attack......just fact.

[buggyone]

I am also disappointed when hearing this type of report. I thought I was getting a really safe community when we bought here. It turned out otherwise. Refrain from an attack here. You that believe everything here and the developer are the best thing since sliced bread. JMHO.

You have a community with around 90,000 residents. Quite a few of them will have grandkids visiting at any given time. There are also youths from the surrounding communities such as Wildwood and Lady Lake who frequent the squares for the movies and just to hang out. Almost all of the youths are great kids but like anywhere, there are some troublemakers who will do vandalism - such as at the restrooms, minor golfcart vandalism, or serious stuff like breaking car windows.

The "really safe community" is really safe. You do not have muggings on the streets nor is there violent crime such as armed robbery, murder, or rape. There is not home invasion nor shootouts. Yes, it is a really safe community.

Still, we have a percentage of our residents who carry a concealed pistol when walking in The Villages or even sleep with a loaded pistol on the night table next to their bed. I know of one person who answers their door with a pistol ready to be drawn from a holster. I would hate to be that paranoid or scared of life no matter where I lived!!

[Bill32]

You have a community with around 90,000 residents. Quite a few of them will have grandkids visiting at any given time. There are also youths from the surrounding communities such as Wildwood and Lady Lake who frequent the squares for the movies and just to hang out. Almost all of the youths are great kids but like anywhere, there are some troublemakers who will do vandalism - such as at the restrooms, minor golfcart vandalism, or serious stuff like breaking car windows.

The "really safe community" is really safe. You do not have muggings on the streets nor is there violent crime such as armed robbery, murder, or rape. There is not home invasion nor shootouts. Yes, it is a really safe community.

Still, we have a percentage of our residents who carry a concealed pistol when walking in The Villages or even sleep with a loaded pistol on the night table next to their bed. I know of one person who answers their door with a pistol ready to be drawn from a holster. I would hate to be that paranoid or scared of life no matter where I lived!!

Boy we could start a whole different post with this one!!!:icon_bored:

[2BNTV]

I presently reside in Bridgeport CT. A couple of years ago, it was called the murder capital of the U.S.A. Google says Chicago is presently number 1.

TV will be a much safer place to live. IMHO :smiley:

[paulandjean]

Think I'll get a few people mad, but here goes -- This has got to be one of the most pathetic threads I've seen on here. Cars were vandalized. Not broken into, nothing stolen, so far as we know. There have been no reports of homes broken into after this incident.

People were blamed for leaving their cars in the lot while cruising. Why not blame whomever arranged the cruise and recommended parking there? People want more security, cameras, citizens patrols, the whole nine yards. This was a sad incident. We do have pretty good security. The police are a very active presence in TV. Community Watch, while pretty worthless in the whole, are visible. Not sure we really need more than we have.

People here have doubted it has happened, blamed servers and other workers of businesses; kids; "bad guys". All without one single fact. Comments about "suspicious" kids riding bikes with backpacks on Belvedere (probably workers going home at the end of their shift, but hey).

We finally get someone whose car was vandalized. Now it is believed. We have no facts, a lot of supposition. So, here's my supposition -- it was vandalism, plain and simple. Something very easy for one or two people to do with a heavy instrument or rock. Odds are it was probably kids. Odds of catching them is pretty slim (unless they're dumb enough to do it again and get caught).

How about we stop the blame game and the paranoia? How about we commiserate with those whose cars were damaged? We're a large community, things are going to happen. Fortunately, less happens here than in most communities our size. Do be vigilant. Stupidity and carelessness helps no one but let's not go overboard.

Thats why this site is so much fun ??????????????????????????

[Bogie Shooter]

Boy we could start a whole different post with this one!!!:icon_bored:

It already has been, just do a search.

[Barefoot]

FYI. My wife and I have seen two young adults with backpacks riding bikes at night, through the Belvedere gate. They looked suspicious to us. Just wondered where they came from and where they were going.

You haven't said what is suspicious about these bike riders. The fact that they are young adults with backpacks? Perhaps they were simply going home? I know several young adults who live in the Belvedere area. They are perfectly respectable. It is permissable for a young adult over the age of 19 to live with their parents.

[mulligan]

Actually, a person over 19 could own a home here.

[Cantwaittoarrive]

Actually, a person over 19 could own a home here.

Correct. Also just because someone is young they look suspicious? I don't get that.

[DougB]

But they have to blame the kids, because if it wasn't one of "them" who did it then it would have to have been one of "us"!

[Irish Rover]

Good call Doug. Remember the buffalo that were such a great attraction? It wasn't teens that forced TV management to move them out - it was adults. Who knows, maybe someone who couldn't afford to take the cruise was making a statement. Just maybe.......... :angel:

[renielarson]

It makes me sad and angry to hear that someone vandalized those cars.

I am sure that whoever did it will be caught. They have a lot of cameras around. That is how they caught the sub contractor who was stealing appliances out of new homes.they caught him on tape...He is now safely locked away.


I can't help but think it was kids. Probably the same vandals who messed up the restrooms at Lake Sumter Landing, you know. the cute ones near the water in pastel colors that look like Cabanas. The same night that vandals did something to several golf carts outside the golf cart store a few months back.

They will get caught, you wait and see.

If I read correctly, The Daily Sun reported he was caught by GPS's installed in the appliances. I don't remember reading about him being caught on tape but I could be wrong...wouldn't be the first time.

[ohhappyday]

Hey folks...don't let our litte piece of paradise create a false sense of security. This happens frequently, especially in new neighborhoods. It is only a matter of time until thieves and scammers find us and take advantage of us. Don't be surprised if the owners of those vehicles are revictimized due to most of us keeping personal info in the glove box. i.e... vehicle registrations, insurance cards, etc. And if it is recommended to leave your name and address posted on the vehicle window in order to park there while on a cruise or whatever, then leave your car at home and find a ride.

Keep your registration and insurance card in your purse or wallet because you almost always have them with you when you drive. Just keep them folded neatly with your drivers license, COPS appreciate that! And take those garage receipts and put them in a folder in your garage/home. There is a lot of useful information on them if they end up in the wrong hands.

If criminals find easy scores/victims they most certainly come back. Lets not give them the opportunity...stay Vigilant.

FYI...
:police:



Yep my thoughts exactly...criminal activity happens everywhere. Just watch out for your neighbors like you would anywhere. It was probably in the overnight hours when there aren't many folks around. I know after the issue with the restrooms being vandalized up there I saw more cop cruisers in the area. The reality is it could have been anyone. Kids, Adults..too bad security camera's didn't catch the folks. Probably cops or local business's that covered them up. Or maybe the tour operators since it was a designated parking lot for the tours? Anyway, for something like this..probably best thing is have someone drop you off and leave the car in your garage safe :)

[tommy steam]

Remember the good old days when you only worried about parking your golf cart on the "edges" of TV? Some golf clubs were taken, a few carts stolen, and then as the population increased we began to see garages being invaded, homes broken into, etc. With 80,000 people in TV we will see big city problems no matter what the demographic of TV is. February and March will be exceptionally bad because of Spring Break being thrown into the equation and grandparents being much more permissive than parents. Just thought I'd throw this in for a conversation point.
Like Russ says "I could be wrong".
Keep it in the short grass.
I am new here. Why in the world would kids want to come here on spring break? I would think they would have to be brought here in handcuff, screaming all the way...noooooooooooooooo!:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Bogie Shooter]

I am new here. Why in the world would kids want to come here on spring break? I would think they would have to be brought here in handcuff, screaming all the way...noooooooooooooooo!:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

My grandson's all 6 of them really like to come to TV, granted they are 6-13 but I'm glad they can come. Probably at 16 this will end.

[USSGompers]

I am new here. Why in the world would kids want to come here on spring break? I would think they would have to be brought here in handcuff, screaming all the way...noooooooooooooooo!:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

I never wanted to go to my grandma's in the summer. Mom and Dad would drop me off for a week or 2 and I used to be so bored.

One set of grandparent's lived on a farm in the middle of rural PA w/o a TV. I was expected to go outside and do 'something'. UGH!

The other lived in the subs of Detroit. Grandma used to take a nap from 2-5PM while Granddad was at work.

Did not appreciate the time I spent with them then-
BUT I sure do now. How I loved them, you will never know!!

:BigApplause:

[PennBF]

Where are the police in the Squares where kids get together. We were driving
our cart out of the parking lot behind the LSL stores and saw a huge crowd
of teens "messing around" the cars. This was a few months back. We called the sheriff and told them of the potential pending problem and left. You would think that on weekends (Friday and Saturday nights) there would be a strong police presence in these lots and in the squares. Not so. It would be really nice to see a couple of Sheriff deputies just walking around as that in its self a lot of times sends the messages. Of course they would be in uniform. When was the last time you saw a deputy walking around the Squares and lots in the evening?:ho:

[mulligan]

They have a big county to cover....places with a lot more potential for problems than TV. Community watch is in radio contact if they are needed. Just because teens are in a group does not necessarily mean they are doing something wrong. It just means they don't want to hang out with the wrinklies.

[charlie_marie]

I think DDoug said the owner of the cars let their addresses in the window.

[Barefoot]

Where are the police in the Squares where kids get together. We were driving our cart out of the parking lot behind the LSL stores and saw a huge crowd of teens "messing around" the cars. This was a few months back. We called the sheriff and told them of the potential pending problem and left.

I'm curious what the teens were actually doing. Kids tend to congregate in groups and kid around, giggle, shove each other, gossip, flirt, make plans for later. I'm sure we've all done it. There are restaurants and movie theaters in all three Town Squares that attract teens to the area. Just because they're young and restless, that doesn't make them all hooligans.

[Mack184]

It makes me sad and angry to hear that someone vandalized those cars.




I can't help but think it was kids. Probably the same vandals who messed up the restrooms at Lake Sumter Landing,
While this is not an "always true" situation, more often than not criminal kids do vandalism while criminal adults break, enter & steal. If those cars who had their windows busted also had their radios or other easily fenced electronic goodies stolen from their cars then I would think young adults stealing for drug money or other means. Since the windows were busted out and nothing was taken, I'd be more inclined to agree with Gracie that the bad actors were kids.

[graciegirl]

While this is not an "always true" situation, more often than not criminal kids do vandalism while criminal adults break, enter & steal. If those cars who had their windows busted also had their radios or other easily fenced electronic goodies stolen from their cars then I would think young adults stealing for drug money or other means. Since the windows were busted out and nothing was taken, I'd be more inclined to agree with Gracie that the bad actors were kids.

But not all kids are bad. It just seems like what Mack said. AND what Barefoot said, above.

I wonder why it wasn't in The Sun...maybe because no arrests made?

[janmcn]

But not all kids are bad. It just seems like what Mack said. AND what Barefoot said, above.

I wonder why it wasn't in The Sun...maybe because no arrests made?

Whether any arrest were made or not, it would have been good to warn people about the danger of leaving your car parked unattended for a long period of time.

[paulandjean]

Where are the police in the Squares where kids get together. We were driving
our cart out of the parking lot behind the LSL stores and saw a huge crowd
of teens "messing around" the cars. This was a few months back. We called the sheriff and told them of the potential pending problem and left. You would think that on weekends (Friday and Saturday nights) there would be a strong police presence in these lots and in the squares. Not so. It would be really nice to see a couple of Sheriff deputies just walking around as that in its self a lot of times sends the messages. Of course they would be in uniform. When was the last time you saw a deputy walking around the Squares and lots in the evening?:ho:

To busy running radar.

[Mack184]

But not all kids are bad.

I wonder why it wasn't in The Sun...maybe because no arrests made?
That's why I said "criminal" kids. Like in most situations, the majority is "good" and there are always some bad apples to ruin it for others.

[PennBF]

There was a good question regarding my post. The question was what were the kids doing when I called the Sheriff. The answer was they were banging on the hoods of cars and cussing and it appeared they were close to a sort of angry problem.
I recognize that kids (e.g. teens) like to hang out and are usually just good kids. It would be a shame to try to stop this if it is just plain good fun. We are somewhat at fault as we have done nothing to give them outlets for their energy. When we were in our teens the local YMCA held dances on Firday nights and we all used that as an outlet. The Y had it's own "bouncer" who would take care of anyone that got out of hand and they had a small band to entertain the teens. Today we have nothing for the teens which is a real shame. There is so much fear of a lawsuit, etc. nothing is done. Maybe a group (Committee) should get together with the objective to provide for the teens and give them a "healthy" outlet. There are so many that like to drink at the squares maybe this would be a healthier outlet for them??:ho:

[paulandjean]

There was a good question regarding my post. The question was what were the kids doing when I called the Sheriff. The answer was they were banging on the hoods of cars and cussing and it appeared they were close to a sort of angry problem.
I recognize that kids (e.g. teens) like to hang out and are usually just good kids. It would be a shame to try to stop this if it is just plain good fun. We are somewhat at fault as we have done nothing to give them outlets for their energy. When we were in our teens the local YMCA held dances on Firday nights and we all used that as an outlet. The Y had it's own "bouncer" who would take care of anyone that got out of hand and they had a small band to entertain the teens. Today we have nothing for the teens which is a real shame. There is so much fear of a lawsuit, etc. nothing is done. Maybe a group (Committee) should get together with the objective to provide for the teens and give them a "healthy" outlet. There are so many that like to drink at the squares maybe this would be a healthier outlet for them??:ho:

Maybe the teens have to much to do these days. Have you been to these middle and high schools. Wonder if these so called problem kids are from the "The Villages High School or Middle Schools".

[Mack184]

Somewhere along in this discussion someone questioned as to whether the vandals were grandchildren of Villages residents. Now unless the grandkiddies happen to live close by, what are grandchildren doing visiting at the beginning of February without playing hooky from school in the process? I haven't lived in FL long enough to know the school calendar, but in every state I'm familiar with schools are in session. There are no expanded vacations then. So HOW would the vandals be grandbabies of Villagers??

[paulandjean]

Have to agree, Probably kids from the villages high school or middle school. local kids.

[Mack184]

Because the restaurants, entertainment & shops tend to close up in the Village centers between 9-10pm that leaves a LOT of time and a lot of area in the dark of night with few people around for those who want to cause mischief to get on with it.

One night shortly after we moved here my wife & I took a ride down Buena Vista all the way from Mulberry to 44. It was about 9pm. It was a very quiet, very lonely ride. I could easily see how some tricksters could cause trouble in one of the remote village center parking lots without being witnessed.

[Bogie Shooter]

There was a good question regarding my post. The question was what were the kids doing when I called the Sheriff. The answer was they were banging on the hoods of cars and cussing and it appeared they were close to a sort of angry problem.
I recognize that kids (e.g. teens) like to hang out and are usually just good kids. It would be a shame to try to stop this if it is just plain good fun. We are somewhat at fault as we have done nothing to give them outlets for their energy. When we were in our teens the local YMCA held dances on Firday nights and we all used that as an outlet. The Y had it's own "bouncer" who would take care of anyone that got out of hand and they had a small band to entertain the teens. Today we have nothing for the teens which is a real shame. There is so much fear of a lawsuit, etc. nothing is done. Maybe a group (Committee) should get together with the objective to provide for the teens and give them a "healthy" outlet. There are so many that like to drink at the squares maybe this would be a healthier outlet for them??:ho:

......

[Skip]

AAA told the patrons to park behind the office and put a plaque on the dashboard indicating they were on a AAA cruise for a week. They seem to be the only ones who can authorize parking in lots around Lake Sumter Landing. Why is that?

Skip

[mulligan]

Nobody else needs to ??

[senior citizen]

Somewhere along in this discussion someone questioned as to whether the vandals were grandchildren of Villages residents. Now unless the grandkiddies happen to live close by, what are grandchildren doing visiting at the beginning of February without playing hooky from school in the process? I haven't lived in FL long enough to know the school calendar, but in every state I'm familiar with schools are in session. There are no expanded vacations then. So HOW would the vandals be grandbabies of Villagers??

Good observation. School was in session up north back then.

This week NOW is February winter vacation in Vermont.........

Then, they get another week towards the end of April for spring vacation.

[senior citizen]

Whether any arrest were made or not, it would have been good to warn people about the danger of leaving your car parked unattended for a long period of time.

I agree. Better safe than sorry.

[senior citizen]

I am new here. Why in the world would kids want to come here on spring break? I would think they would have to be brought here in handcuff, screaming all the way...noooooooooooooooo!:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

They would come to visit their grandparents.........who dote on them.

Ours have all said that if we moved to TV, they would be there for every holiday.........and I'm sure school vacations are part and parcel of that wish.

That I can understand. What I cannot understand is why younger folks want to live there permanently. We love ours, but they all belong in a regular community such as one that they were raised in.......NOT in a retirement community fulltime.

Unless they want to mooch off the oldtimers............

Adult children who have flown the nest a long time ago will indeed enjoy visiting TV.......but still prefer the excitement and cultural events of the cities.....or the skiing in the mountains, etc. to a Florida retirement lifestyle that so much of us would enjoy at our older ages.

[simpkinp]

Has anyone else noticed that the police blotter is no longer published on Mondays in The Daily Sun? That would be where you would see incidents like this. It was helpful in that it made you aware of what is going on around here. Not complaining, just sayin...

[Mack184]

Has anyone else noticed that the police blotter is no longer published on Mondays in The Daily Sun? That would be where you would see incidents like this. It was helpful in that it made you aware of what is going on around here. Not complaining, just sayin...
It's not exactly a deep, dark secret that The Sun is very slow to report anything unpleasant happening in TV.

[simpkinp]

I kinda miss the weekly police blotter to see who in TV got a DUI the past week. I even spotted a guy one of my GFs used to date got arrested for domestic violence. Hmmm, she dodged a bullet there...

[graciegirl]

Whether any arrest were made or not, it would have been good to warn people about the danger of leaving your car parked unattended for a long period of time.


Today's Daily Sun
Tuesday February 19, 2013

[jbdlfan]

I'm not accusing the DS of anything nefarious, but why the delay in reporting the story by 21 days? It just seems at this late of a junture, without an arrest, kind of pointless.

[buzzy]

But, if the DS is your only source of news, does the delay even matter?

[Bogie Shooter]

It seems that the Daily Sun is damned if they do, and damned if they don't.
Some folks can find fault with anything!

[gomoho]

Yep, 80 thousand people about a million different opinions, but it keeps things interesting. How dull would TOTV be if everyone agreed about everything?

[jbdlfan]

It seems that the Daily Sun is damned if they do, and damned if they don't.
Some folks can find fault with anything!

Pretty sure I said I didn't think anything nefarious(wicked), just wondering why they report on news that's two weeks old! Overly sensitive?????

[janmcn]

It seems that the Daily Sun is damned if they do, and damned if they don't.
Some folks can find fault with anything!

The Villages is probably the only place in the country where it is news when the newspaper reports the news.

[BobnBev]

The Villages is probably the only place in the country where it is news when the newspaper reports the news.:popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:

[cabo35]

Think I'll get a few people mad, but here goes -- This has got to be one of the most pathetic threads I've seen on here. Cars were vandalized. Not broken into, nothing stolen, so far as we know. There have been no reports of homes broken into after this incident.

People were blamed for leaving their cars in the lot while cruising. Why not blame whomever arranged the cruise and recommended parking there? People want more security, cameras, citizens patrols, the whole nine yards. This was a sad incident. We do have pretty good security. The police are a very active presence in TV. Community Watch, while pretty worthless in the whole, are visible. Not sure we really need more than we have.

People here have doubted it has happened, blamed servers and other workers of businesses; kids; "bad guys". All without one single fact. Comments about "suspicious" kids riding bikes with backpacks on Belvedere (probably workers going home at the end of their shift, but hey).

We finally get someone whose car was vandalized. Now it is believed. We have no facts, a lot of supposition. So, here's my supposition -- it was vandalism, plain and simple. Something very easy for one or two people to do with a heavy instrument or rock. Odds are it was probably kids. Odds of catching them is pretty slim (unless they're dumb enough to do it again and get caught).

How about we stop the blame game and the paranoia? How about we commiserate with those whose cars were damaged? We're a large community, things are going to happen. Fortunately, less happens here than in most communities our size. Do be vigilant. Stupidity and carelessness helps no one but let's not go overboard.

But, everyone needs a mystery now and then. It gives us a chance to activate and exercise cerebral grey matter, not to mention raise awareness about a community problem. Thanks to all the posters who contribute and make life interesting.

My first thought was, "I wonder who gets to do all the window repair work?????????" Hmmmmmm.

Another theory is based on a report that Colonel Mustard was observed in his "cups" at City Fire around midnight. Colonel Mustard in the parking lot with a candlestick.

If you were a victim, I feel for you. It's frustrating but their replaceable windows. Perspective please.

The best crime prevention tools are good neighbors and/or large dogs.

[Skip]

But, if the DS is your only source of news, does the delay even matter?

Yes, if you decided to park your car there the very next day. If it was in the paper in a timely manner, you might think twice where to park at night.

We won't ever book with AAA again.

Skip

[Mikeod]

Yes, if you decided to park your car there the very next day. If it was in the paper in a timely manner, you might think twice where to park at night.

We won't ever book with AAA again.

Skip

So, it's AAA's fault? I'll bet someone thought it would be a good idea for all those people to park in the same area and put a note in the windshield so Neighborhood Watch and the sheriff would understand why they were there long term and could watch over the cars. Unfortunately, they can't be there 24/7 and some vandals took advantage. Could have happened anywhere, like an airport long term parking lot. So why blame AAA?

[buggyone]

Yes, if you decided to park your car there the very next day. If it was in the paper in a timely manner, you might think twice where to park at night.

We won't ever book with AAA again.

Skip

You are blaming AAA for vandals? Did they guarantee the safety of your car? If they guaranteed the safety, they would pay for repairs. I have asked friends to take me to trip busses so I would not have to leave my car outside unattended. My friends were glad to do it and to pick me up also. That is what friends are for - helping others.

[simpkinp]

If you don't have anyone who will take you and pick you up, you can always call a taxi. We used the Villages Taxi, now they are gone but I have seen another company driving people to the store, etc. It is not expensive and they handle your bags for you and everything.

[Bogie Shooter]

Yes, if you decided to park your car there the very next day. If it was in the paper in a timely manner, you might think twice where to park at night.

We won't ever book with AAA again.

Skip

I am too lazy to read the other 116 posts. Did you windshield get broken?