Chief Neal Lartigue with the Ville Platte Police Department would like to make citizens of Ville Platte aware that we have had an increase in break ins to local businesses and homes. “We would like for everyone to be more careful” Chief Lartigue said, “Lock your doors, check your windows and report suspicious people immediately.”  You are asked to call if you see someone hanging around where they don’t belong.  “We stress that callers will remain anonymous” Lartigue said, “It is important to have cooperation from the citizens of Ville Platte so that we can catch these criminals.”  The Detectives are following leads at this time and want citizens to be aware that they could be next.  “No one is safe with these criminals on the street” Lartigue added, “Call us and let us know who’s been hanging around your neighborhood suspiciously.”  As a community we need to stick together and watch out for each other.  “If you see someone hanging around that doesn’t belong, call immediately. Lartigue also added, “Try to remember what they are wearing, if they are in a vehicle and what color the vehicle is.” Calling right away is also very important. It is easier to locate suspects if they are still in the area.  Remember that calling in this information is anonymous. The Ville Platte Police Department can be contacted at 363-1313.