I am worried and scared

[MelJan1990]

I am a high school teacher. At midnight on a Friday night, a teenaged boy showed up on my camera down the side of my house. He tried to get in but I keep my doors locked. I called the police but he was gone by the time they arrived. The police said because he didn't break in there wasn't much they could do. I am worried this boy might be associated with the school I work at. It's hard to see clearly who he is though as he was wearing a covid mask. I am so scared he is going to come back again. I live by myself and I can't stop thinking what if he comes back again and breaks in next time? I am so scared and worried 😞

[Sophie_M]

Hey MelJan1990,

We are so sorry to hear about this frightening experience, and it is understandable that this has left you feeling quite shaken up and worried. No one should ever be made to feel unsafe in their own home, and it we are glad that you showed your strength in reaching out to the police for support. Please know that you've come to a safe and non-judgemental space, and our caring community are here to help support you through this difficult time.

We'd also really encourage you to reach out to our Beyond Blue Support Service, which is available 24/7 by phone on 1300 22 4636 or on Webchat 1pm-12am AEST on our website: www.beyondblue.org.au/getsupport. One of our friendly counsellors will be able to talk through these feelings with you and can offer support and advice to help you through this. 
Our friends at Lifeline are also here for you anytime on 13 14 11 whenever things are feeling overwhelming to cope with.

However if you ever feel unsafe, we'd encourage you to contact your local police station or contact 000.

You are not alone here, and we hope that you keep us updated on how you're going whenever you feel ready.


 

[tranzcrybe]

Whether or not this person has any association with your school will not lessen the feelings of invasion of your personal space and fears for your safety. It is a natural reaction to have heightened suspicions of everyone - particularly in your field of work.

If it can be of any comfort for you, most attempted break-ins are opportunistic, poorly planned or prepared, and as much as can be known to the invader, anonymous (since any associations create for easy suspects).

Are you living in the same suburb as the school? Are there other schools in your area? Most likely it is a random attempt to gain entry by some idle loiterer who had no idea.

Check your security footage to see if there are any earlier appearances (during the day, or people just hanging around nearby). If you still feel uncomfortable, it may be time to install lockable gates, upgraded surveillance, or get a big angry dog on the property (who will also be your support in times of need).

[geoff]

Hello MelJan, this must be very concerning, just a question, are any camera's attached to the house inside or outside, if inside can you put up signs indicating that 'cameras can see you' or something similar or as tranzcrybe has said, a big dog that barks at intruders may be helpful.

Ask the principal at assembly to tell the students that houses may have been approached by loitering youngsters and that the police have been informed of any activities.

It's also possible to install sensors inside the house that will notify a security company who will come and investigate when they are notified and the cost will vary as to what you choose.

Do you have 'neighbour watch' in your suburb, something both your neighbours should be notified of what's happened, so all of you can keep an eye out for each other.

Best wishes.

Geoff.

[MelJan1990]

I thought about asking my real estate if I could have the back gate moved to the front of the house. This way they would have to be super keen to break in to climb a locked fence. I hope my real estate says this is fine to do.

[MelJan1990]

At the moment I only have 2 cameras outside my unit. I am thinking of buying another camera, one which records movement at night in colour. When I buy this camera, I will put one of the old ones outside inside my unit. Also I posted the footage of the boy on my neighbourhood watch page and a lady contacted me and said she thinks she knows who it is. But you see she thinks it's a girl and she linked me to her profile page. I said to the lady that I know it's not a girl but I checked out her profile anyway. After looking at her profile I came across a picture that has a guy in it that looks identical to the guy that came to my place. I am wondering should I tell the police this information?

[geoff]

Hello MelJan, the police won't do anything, not unless any damage or something has been taken, but if you can catch this person on camera that's a bonus for you.

This guy might be the boyfriend of the girl, and if you can afford this camera it might well be worth it, at least you know it will video or take photos if you're asleep.

Take care.

Geoff.