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We Need YOU To Help Keep North Ranch Safe! JOIN THE NORTH RANCH ANTI-CRIME TEAM! email northranchchris@yahoo.com or call 784-9963
NRCA Anti-Crime Team Leaders
Crime Watch Leaders are needed for the following Subdivisions: Catalina 1, 2 and 3. |
THANK YOU!
The intent of this webpage is to promote community involvement against crime in our neighborhood. Only awareness and involvement will help keep our neighborhood one of the most crime-free communities in NW Pima County.
Thank you residents of North Ranch for getting involved to help make North Ranch
a Zero Tolerance Zone for crime!
Read The
Tell Tale Signs of Gang Membership
CRIME WAY DOWN SINCE ONSET OF SURGE
Crimes in North Ranch reported to the police are down over 90% since
volunteers and Security Committee members began patrolling the community
at night in shifts.
Flyers delivering a warning to vandals and criminals were handed out to
youth on the street over the last three weeks have also helped get the
message out that North Ranch is a community with zero tolerance for
crime.
Owners and renters need to stay vigilant by calling 911 and the NRCA to report crime or suspicious actions, especially at night.
Law
enforcement experts suggested the near-epidemic of larceny which plagued
the community for a season was a direct result of garages being
left open and car doors left unlocked.
Like ravenous ants petty thieves and mopers followed a
honey trail of unlocked car doors and open garages until they were all
but stamped out by the security surge.
Please, please, continue to keep your garage doors shut and car doors
locked at night.
Youth and ruffians will not be permitted to roam the streets of North
Ranch with impunity. A curfew is being enforced.
Unlike prior months when we may have let our guard down, mopers and
those suspected of mopery with intent to creep have found the streets of
North Ranch to be very inhospitable as of late.
Thank you Security Committee and the many volunteers who are active in
the patrol surge. The volunteer patrol surge will continue.
(Wasted Man converses with law enforcement prior to going for ride in squad car).
07/27/10
BIG POOL: WASTED MAN WITH KNIFE HAULED AWAY BY COPS.
At
about 9:00 PM security contacted the NRCA manager to report a “loopy”
bather carrying a knife around the big pool area. The NRCA manager
promptly arrived and found a very inebriated young man wading in the big
pool. The manager summoned Pima County Sheriffs for assistance after the
swimmer demonstrated extremely slow motor skills.
Management, security and law enforcement all expressed concern that the
man
Big knife and vulgar belt buckle
After the police arrived the bather climbed out of the pool and began to stagger across the deck precariously, nearly falling over several times. Onlookers gawked at the pitiable spectacle.
The manager found a large knife on the deck near the pool area, apparently discarded by the man during the arduous stroll of shame. The man also sported an enormous belt buckle formed in the shape of a popular cuss word, too profane to post on this family oriented website.
(During happier days: Wasted Man with pals on July 19th)
The drunken man, a North Ranch resident, told the police that the knife indeed belonged to him. The man also cheerfully invited police to administer a breathalyzer test to "see for yourselves how much I drank." Police summarily escorted the man from the facility and placed him in the back seat of one of the three squad cars. A deputy implored the man not to vomit in the car.
The drunken man has been considered a person of interest by security and bathers for past erratic behavior at the pools.
Pool keys have been deactivated for the residence involved.
Residents who see this man at the pools should call 911 immediately and the mgmt. company.
A bottle of rum was later found in the trash can. (pictured below - WARNING GRAPHIC IMAGE).
(Bottle of rum left in trash can by Wasted Man. Rum is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane by-products such as molasses. It can be mixed with soda pop and was popular among pirates in days past).
7/23/10
11PM YOUTHS JUMP OFF BRIDGE GIRL SCREAMS
At approximately 11:15 pm on 7/23/10 the security guard saw several youths dressed in black jump off the drainage passageway bridge near Desert Bend Loop and Sky Ridge Loop. Then he reported hearing a girl screaming “leave me alone.”
The guard called the NRCA manager. The manager drove around the area and walked down the trail behind Desert Bend Loop looking for the youths.
A few minutes later the manager spotted a youth sitting on the curb along Cactus Canyon Pass near Sky Ridge Loop. The youth was identified and said he lived in the apartments across Thornydale. The manager told the youth to leave the property at once and the youth began sobbing, inexplicably, and walked toward the apartments. The manager followed the youth out of North Ranch.
07/23/10
Solicitor In Bermuda Shorts Sits On Community Wall (picture courtesy NRCA Securo-Vision)
OUT OF CONTROL SOLICITORS CREATE HAVOC IN STREETS
O
ver the last several days the community has seen an invasion of aggressive solicitors hawking overpriced solar heating systems. Like hungry locusts the khaki clad hucksters descended on the community until being summarily dispatched, not once but twice, by Security Committee Chair Tony Congi and the NRCA manager.Sporting the kind of glazed look usually found among fanatics, the solicitors said they were "not selling anything," but were "only trying to help people.”
The company Greenmonsters sells solar heating systems, apparently attempting to capitalize on the green “mania” which permeates the nation. The systems are very expensive, and some say overpriced.
While they may look like harmless beatniks or students, the solicitors exploded at Congi on 7/21 and at the manager yesterday, spewing a non-stop stream of barnyard epithets and insults when asked to leave. Shocked neighbors looked on in horror.
On
Wednesday, July 21st the solicitors traveled the private North Ranch streets in the back of a beat up Chevrolet pick-up truck with TX plates . Pima County Sheriff’s ran the plate number and found no record of the vehicle. It is suspected that the truck may have been stolen.Yesterday the NRCA manager discovered a solicitor from the same outfit loitering on the corner of Cactus Canyon Pass and Eastern Fork Trail at about 2 pm. The manager escorted the solicitor to the end of the property near Shannon. Pima County Sheriffs were contacted but did not arrive before the solicitor was picked up by a leased van. The manager told the driver not to come back and the van left the community post-haste, peeling out onto Shannon Rd.
Soliciting in North Ranch is strictly prohibited.
Residents who come in contact with aggressive solicitors should call 911 asap and the mgmt. company at 624-4404 or 784-9963.
THEFT IN NORTH RANCH 2010
NRCA SECURITY COMMITTEE ON THE SCENE AS CSI COLLECTS FINGERPRINTS FROM
VANDALIZED VEHICLE IN CATALINA IV
A VERY SPECIAL MESSAGE TO VANDALS AND ROBBERS
THE NRCA WILL HUNT YOU DOWN AND PROSECUTE YOU
TO THE FULLEST EXTENT OF THE LAW. PARENTS OF VANDALS WILL BE HELD
RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGES TO PRIVATE PROPERTY CAUSED BY THEIR MINOR
CHILDREN
Owners of vandalized property must call
911 and should also report damages to the NRCA
.jpg)
3 VACANT HOMES BROKEN INTO. WITNESSES CALL REALTORS INSTEAD OF COPS
In the last 30 days at least 3 North Ranch homes have been burglarized and horribly vandalized. At least 2 of the homes were vacant and up for sale.
At the 6/14/2010 BOD meeting President Washington reported neighbors who witnessed the break-ins called real estate agents instead of 911.
Real estate agents are not first responders.
If you witness a crime being committed please call 911, tell the operator what is going on and that you want law enforcement to make contact immediately.
The burglaries are occurring in broad daylight. Witnesses report seeing a group of youths carrying baseball bats.
Overprotective Hawk with super vision squatting in community owned tree
VICIOUS HAWK ALERT!
MANAGER SURVIVES ATTACK
6/3/2010
At about 11:15 AM on 6/3/2010 the NRCA manager was hit in the back of the head by an overprotective hawk, which had taken residence in the common area tree on the northwest corner of Stageline and Cactus Canyon Pass. The manager had been conducting a routine site visit inspecting irrigation systems when he stumbled upon a grisly hawk feeding ground in the planter on the southeast corner of Stageline and Cactus Canyon.
A neighbor yelled “watch out for that hawk!” as the flying beast commenced strafing the manager. The manager turned around just in time to see the bird aiming straight for his head and ducked. The overprotective hawk returned to a nest full of chicks before making several more attack runs at the manager.
After completing the site inspection the manager began walking along the southern bike trail toward Thornydale when he was stunned by a vicious blow to the back of his head from the attacking hawk, suffering a large bump. The hawk made two more attempts to wallop the manager but missed. This was the second time in about a month that the manager had come in contact with aggressive wildlife, narrowly escaping being bitten by a snake on 4/28/2010, and today’s bird attack.
Snake ready to bite manager on 4/28/10
Owners are encouraged to take heed near the area of Stageline and Cactus Canyon pass.
Residents at the pool reported witnessing a “bird war” between the hawks and owls, who are both vying for control over nesting and feeding territory.
Disclaimer: The NRCA is not responsible for the acts of animals and insects in the community, including but not limited to reptiles, ants, fowl, boars, large cats, and vermin.
SMILEY FACE ARSONIST PAYS $800 FOR CRIMES AGAINST THE NRCA
SMILEY FACE ARSON/VANDAL (FAR RIGHT) BURNS HOLES IN PLAYGROUND TARP
Crime doesn't pay in North Ranch. A former resident learned the hard way after
being caught on video setting fire to the playground tarp at the big pool.
Once again North Ranch got their man! The Smiley Face Vandal paid $800 in
damages to the NRCA for damaging the recently repaired playground tarp with a
cigarette lighter and being arrested for it.
The arrest was made possible by information supplied to the mgmt. company by
homeowners and witnesses. Review of security video and quick action from John
the Security Guard led to identification of the miscreant, who was promptly
arrested.
SAFETY TIPS FROM NORTH RANCH HOMEOWNER RON FRIEND
Car Keys -- Put your car keys beside your bed at night.
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Thank you RoN for your contribution to the online Round Up!
GUARD CATCHES FENCES JUMPERS AT SMALL POOL LATE AT NIGHT
North Ranch security guard John was making his regular rounds and saws the
youths in the jacuzzi. John called the NRCA manager who was off the property at
the time. The manager instructed the guard to call 911 immediately. John also
reported damages to the Sheppard's crook fence.
Pima County Sheriff's arrived and
the youths were identified. The youths will pay for any damages caused by their
actions.
This is another example on how
effective and valuable security improvements have been in North Ranch. Had there
been no guards, no cameras, no improved key systems there is no way to know how
much more damages would occur.
Prior to the security improvements
and security guards it was common to find needles and drug paraphernalia and
other items in the parking lot near the pools. Those who lived near the pools
and families who use the pools were at greater risk to crime.
Thank you John the guard and the
Security Committee and Anti-Crime Watch for once again helping to keep North
Ranch safe!
SMILEY FACE ARSON/VANDAL (FAR RIGHT) BURNS HOLES IN PLAYGROUND TARP
SMILEY FACE ARSON/VANDAL ARRESTED!
On 12/12/2009 witnesses reported to mgmt.
seeing a youth burning smiley face shaped holes in the newly repaired
tarp over the big pool playground equipment. Security video corroborated
the reports. Pima County Sheriffs were notified as well as the NRCA
Security Committee. The arson/vandalism was
particularly disturbing as many children were on the equipment at the
time. The tarp had also just been removed and repaired a few days prior
to the arson/vandalism.
Security Committee Chair Tony Congi and
the community manager gathered information about the identity of the
youth. Only his first name and street of residence was identified.
Tonight 1/30/2010 at
5:40 pm John the Security Guard called manager Chris Centuori to report
that the youth he had seen burning the holes in the playground tarp was
in fact on site near the pool parking lot. Centuori instructed John the
Guard to call 911 and ask the Sheriff to make contact. Centuori arrived
at the pool and spoke with the youth. The youth admitted to the manager
that he had burned the tarp. Later Pima County
Sheriff's Deputies arrived and arrested the youth. The playground tarp
may need to be replaced. The cost to replace the tarp is over $3000.00 The youth lives in a
rental home in North Ranch. Rental property owners are responsible for
their tenants with regard to community rules. Thank you North Ranch
Owners for getting involved and reporting the crime to Security and the
mgmt. company so quickly. Arrests would have never been made had Owners
not gotten involved! The NRCA has zero
tolerance for vandalism and criminal damage in our community.
SAGUAROS ATTACKED IN IRONWOOD IV
Homeowners on Sky Ranch Trail reported several saquaro cactuses were vandalized
in the common area near Sun Ranch Trail.
The NRCA reset the cactus within 24 hours of the report.
YOUTHS SET UP CABANA BEHIND PALMS
Industrious youths set up a "cabana" behind the palm trees near Thornydale road.
Papers, garbage and other items were found strewn around the area by the mgmt.
company during a routine walkthrough of the common areas. Some painted taggings
were also found near the area and were promptly covered up with paint.
The mgmt. company regularly walks the common areas of North Ranch.
Anyone with info about this should call 624-4404 x 115
Above: Pit Bull Type Dog charges security guard as he enters tennis court.
PIT BULL DOG RUNS WILD ON $60,000 TENNIS COURT!
On 10/17/2009 a homeowner allowed a pit-bull type dog to run loose on
the newly resurfaced tennis courts. The North Ranch Rules prohibit pets
from entering the recreational areas. Security notified the
mgmt. company and the guards were instructed to evict the animal from
the tennis court. Upon entering the courts security video showed the dog
charging at the guard. The guard asked the key holder to remove the
animal and the key holder did so begrudgingly The North Ranch Rules
are clear about animals in the recreational areas:
NR Rules: “ 3.10. No Pets. No pets or animals are
allowed in the Ramada, pool area or tennis courts.”
The NRCA invested heavily in the new True Bounce courts to increase the
property values of the Association. Several new Owners and prospective
purchasers have commented positively on the high quality of the
amenities.
YOUTHS TOSS CHAISE LOUNGE INTO N. POOL
USE AS SLIDING POND!
08/29/2009
At about 6:46 PM on 8/29/2009 two teenagers entered the north pool and
immediately engaged in horseplay with the pool furniture.
A chaise lounge was tossed into the pool and was later propped up on the steps
and used as a sliding pond by the by the youths.
The metal framed pool furniture can cause serious damage to the pool plaster.
North Ranch pools have some of the best plaster anywhere around. Let's keep
control of our children to protect our pools!
The youths also played a boom box at maximum volume.
A review of the pool key log identified the owner of the keys. The owner's keys
have been deactivated. The NRCA reserves the right to remove privileges to
common elements and recreational facilities any time an owner or their household
residents or tenants break the rules or otherwise cause damage to common
property.
Loose straps of vinyl were discovered at the bottom of the pool. The NRCA is
investigating to determine if the horseplay caused the damage. All the chaise
lounges were re-strapped this year by volunteers.
ELVIS MAKES SURPRISE APPEARANCE IN COMMUNITY
08/11/2009
Homeowners and board members reported seeing strange markings resembling famous
rock and roll singer Elvis Presley on the newly painted columns along Cactus
Canyon.
The reports were checked out by management who found that three stucco columns
on a bridge near Western Fork trail had indeed been desecrated by images of the
late rock and roller, famous for his on-stage gyrations while performing hit
songs such as Jailhouse Rock, Hound Dog and Viva Las Vegas.
The taggings were apparently done with a stencil and were immediately covered by
the NRCA with approved paint colors.
Two weeks earlier an image of cartoon character Sponge Bob Square Pants was
found painted on the asphalt along Canyon Brook Trail.
Anyone with information about the Elvis Presley or Sponge Bob Square Pants
vandalism should contact the mgmt. company and call 911.
HOBO ALERT? "URINE BOMB" THROWN AT IRONWOOD 1 HOME!
9/4/2009
A plastic bottle containing urine was tossed at a home bordering the desert in
Ironwood Canyon 1. The homeowner called the mgmt. company and 911 to report a
noise and the discovery of a water bottle containing a mysterious "fizzing"
yellow liquid. The manager told the homeowner not to touch the bottle and
suspected it might contain urine.
The incident scared the homeowner because of the recent crime near Tucson
National Golf Club in which chemicals were used to cause illness or harm.
Pima county sheriff's deputies confirmed that the bottle contained urine and
said hobos often carry water bottles, which they use to store and consume their
own urine to avoid dehydration.
A few days before the incident the NRCA manager discovered a mattress in the
desert common area in the neighborhood across the street. (see picture above).
Anyone with information about the incident should call 911 and the mgmt.
company.
Residents who discover hobos in the common area should call 911 asap and not
engage the hobos. If you see a bottle or container of strange liquid near your
home or in the common area do not touch it! Call 911 and the mgmt. company.
CAUGHT ON VIDEO TAPE: LITTERBUG DIRTIES DECK
Recently the pool company and security team have reported
skimmer debris piles appearing on the kool decking near the south pool jacuzzi.
Surveillance video revealed a homeowner dumping the debris on the deck...leaving
a slimy, smelly mess for other to clean.
While the motive for the action may never be known, what is known is that
there are at least four trash bins at the south pool - where the debris should
have been emptied.
This person has also littered the grounds with obnoxious sticky notes in the
past and has been known to open the gate to let himself in.
The resident will receive a cease and desist letter from the association and if
the dirty deeds continues the association may remove this person's pool
privileges.
After all the
hard work done by the pool/rec committee, volunteers, board members, mgmt.
company and contractors to restore the pool into a beautiful faculty we North
Ranchers can be proud of, it is a shame that one litterbug can make for an
unpleasant experience.
YOUTHS HOP
FENCE, MOLEST SECURITY CAMERA
A youth hopped the north pool fence and then proceeded to
knock a security camera off-kilter, causing it to lose focus and behave
erratically.
Ten minutes later an unruly mob of youths entered the pool
with a key holder and broke several pool rules including leaving a small child
unattended in the jacuzzi. The youths also moved other cameras and left dirty
diapers on the deck.
A general alert was issued to security committee members
and the key holder was quickly identified. The board will take action on the
matter at the next meeting. For liability reasons the key has been turned off.
"DROLL" "DANCER" WANTED BY NORTH
RANCH
About 60 days ago graffiti appeared behind the
common wall near Shannon. The vandals left the monikers Droll and Dancer
on the wall. Residents who provide information which leads to the arrest
of the vandals may be eligible for a reward.
03/10/09
COMMUNITY ACTION LEAD TO DECREASE IN
VANDALISM
Reports of vandalism in the North Ranch
community is down thanks to heavy community involvement.
A serial marker tagger who uses the moniker
S.I.R. has not left any tags along the common walls in at least 30 days.
The tags are routinely removed by volunteers within days of sighting.
The Security Committee has leads on information on individuals who may
be involved in the vandalism.
Eggings have completely ceased since community
action led to the arrests of 3 individuals in February. While this does
not necessarily mean the arrested persons were responsible for every
egging in the community, word is getting around among neighboring youths
that North Ranch is serious about fighting crime. Vandals are simply not
welcome here.
BIKE STOLEN FROM RESIDENCE, ARRESTS
EXPECTED
An expensive bicycle was stolen from a home in
Ironwood IV recently. The bike ended up on Craig's List. Pima County
Sheriffs are investigating and are expected to make some arrests.
STRANGE CALL TO MANAGER REGARDING EGGINGS
FROM "ATTORNEY"
The NRCA manager received an early morning
call on his mobile from a person claiming to be "visiting attorney."
The caller launched into a confrontational monologue before identifying
herself and complained about aspects of the Round Up's publicizing of
the recent arrests for vandalism.
The caller said she considered the eggings to
be "pranks" and complained that the association was trying to "railroad"
those arrested. The manager thanked the caller for her input
and attempted to get more contact information but the caller hung up.
A search of AZ State Bar records listed no
attorney by the name that was given to the manager.
02/23/09
HELP NEEDED TO CATCH TAGGERS
The rear faces of the common wall near Shannon
across from Sawmill Springs Trail has been desecrated with spray paint.
Profanity and gang wannabe markings were painted on the wall. The
vandals left clues which may help identify them. Pictures of the
vandalism (minus profanity) will be posted on this web page soon.
Anybody with information on the identity of
the vandals should call 911 and the manager at 784-9963.
02/17/09
HELP NEEDED TO STOP MARKER TAGGINGS ON
SOUTH TRAIL
Youths calling themselves S.I.R. have been
desecrating community walls with markers for over one year. Their tag
has evolved from balloon letters to faux gang tag.
It is believed that the youths involved in the
vandalism live near the south pool in Catalina 1. There is no gang
activity in North Ranch. Sherriff's have reported that the community has
one of the lowest crime rates of any in the NW area.
Parents of North Ranch:
Check your children's backpacks for permanent markers. Taggers like to
mark their personal effects (notebooks, binders, room) with their tag.
The community WILL catch the vandals but help is
needed from the parents of North Ranch. Anyone with information about
the tagging should contact the manager at 784-9963 or Tony Congi at
579-8821. Thank you!
QUAD RIDERS (PICTURED ABOVE) TEAR UP SOUTH
TRAIL
A homeowner took this picture of a quad rider in
the cul-de-sac of High Meadow Trail last week. The riders go up a steep
hill on North Ranch common property and then do donuts in the
cul-de-sac.
Witnesses said the riders are a family of three on
three quads. The hill leading from the common area trail to the
cul-de-sac is very steep and it is dangerous to ride any motorized
vehicle on it. The quad riders may be entering through the desert
of the vacant land just south of the community.
If anyone has any information on the identity of
the riders please contact the manager. Thank you
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AGAIN LEADS TO ARRESTS OF VANDALS (CASE #090131357).
UPDATE 2/12/09:
Damage reports to private
homeowner's properties is estimated in the thousands. Probation officers
of the two arrested reported to one of the victims that the youths will
now be charged as felons. If convicted, the youths will have to pay
restitution. If the amount of restitution is unpaid when they turn 18
the state will levy tax liens against them.
2/11/09
Vigilance led to the arrests of two Mt. View High School students
related to “eggings” of NR homes. The “eggings” have plagued the
community for almost 90 days. The attacks have mainly occurred on Sky
Ranch Trail, Windwalker Trail, Pepperwood Loop and Desert Ranch Trail.
At first cars and property were targeted, then people. Damage estimates
to property may be in the thousands.
Following the initial vandalism residents contacted the manager Chris
Centuori and Security Committee Chair Tony Congi. Homeowners were
encouraged to call 911 at any sign of vandalism. The victims
communicated and shared info via email and the community website
reported the crime. As a result, the sheriff’s increased their squad car
patrols of the area on Friday and Saturday nights.
A group of residents in Ironwood IV were especially active in pursuit of
the vandals. Manager Centuori and other residents conducted random Egg
Patrols during high risk periods. A lot of anecdotal information
including vehicle identification was collected during the
intelligence operations, but no egg thrower was caught. That changed
on the night of 1/31/09.
At about 9:00 the doorbell rang at a home owned by an Iraq war vet. When
the homeowner opened the door he saw white projectiles coming at
him at great speed from the street. The Iraq war vet and his wife,
active in the NR Anti- Crime Team were prepared for the vandalism
and called 911.
The Iraq war vet spotted the vandals in the street and chased them down
a walking path behind Sky Ranch Trail with a flashlight. A squad car
quickly arrived and cut off the vandals at Oasis Rd. The
vandals were promptly arrested and booked on criminal damage charges.
Several residents in NR and neighboring North Star Estates, who were
victimized by the egg throwers are contacting the Pima County Sherriff
to link the cases.
The case # for the arrests is
090131357.
If your property has been egged please call 911.
If you need assistance or more information please contact the NRCA
Manager Chris Centuori at 784-9963 or
chris@azhomellc.com T
If you hear a noise outside your home or someone trying to get in your house,
just press the panic button for your car.
The alarm will be set off, and the horn will continue to sound until either you
turn it off or the car battery dies.
Next time you come home for the night and you start to put your keys away, think
of this: It's a security alarm system that you probably already have and
requires no installation. Test it.
It will go off from most everywhere inside your house and will keep honking
until your battery runs down or until you reset it with the button on the key
fob chain.
It works if you park in your driveway or garage If your car alarm goes off when
someone is trying to break in your house, odds are the burglar or rapist won't
stick around... after a few seconds all the neighbors will be looking out their
windows to see who is out there and sure enough the criminal won't want that.
And remember to carry your keys while walking to your car in a parking lot.
The alarm can work the same way there.....
Maybe it could save a life or a sexual abuse crime.
Could also be useful for any emergency, such as a heart attack, where you can't
reach a phone.
NR RESIDENTS TO FIGHT BACK AGAINST EGGINGS
12/12/08
North Ranchers in Ironwood IV and Catalina IV are encouraged to go keep a watchful eye this weekend (Friday and Saturday night) to help stop the serial eggings which have takend place now for the last 3 weeks.
A Citizens Egg Patrol led by the NR Security Committee and manager Chris Centuori will be at ground zero on both nights.
Parents are asked to check their refrigerators for missing eggs. A carton was found on the corner of Sawmill Springs and Cactus Canyon Pass by board member Mike Holly (an Ironwood IV resident).
Pima ounty Sheriff's Department for criminal damage. The resident's spouse graciously replaced the metal board with a new one.
VOLUNTEERS PAINT OVER "CRIPS" GRAFFITI
10/25/08
Suburban North Ranch gang "wannabe" painted their markings in about 10
different spots along the southern perimeter. The marking read "north
ranch crips" in some areas and were painted in blue (the characteristic
color of the Crips street gang).
The unsightly graffiti was painted over by volunteers Harry, Chris and
Mark. Anybody with information about the vandals should call 624-4404 or
email the manager.
9/07/08
TROUBLEMAKER HOPS N. POOL FENCE AT 4:00 AM
On the morning of 9/7/08 an apparently drunk couple hopped the fence at
the n. pool at 4:00 AM. The two attempted first to use a pool key to
open the locked gate. After the failed attempt the couple jumped over
the Sheppard's crook metal fence and spent about 40 minutes wading in
the pool and sitting in the jacuzzi.
Video identified the key holder as a known-troublemaker who had
previously had his key deactivated for being drunk at the pools. No
vandalism occurred and the NRCA decided not to take legal action against
the resident as he is in the process of moving out of the neighborhood.
Good riddance!
Overall crime and other problems is way, way down compared to years
past. The investment of about $7,000 for cameras has easily paid for
itself.
Great work security committee and volunteers!
08/23/08
VANDALS PAID $300 IN RESTITUTION TO NORTH RANCH IN 2008 - MORE TO BE
COLLECTED
Through vigilance, foresight, and involvement vandalism in North Ranch
is but a fraction what is was years ago. Several teenage taggers and
even some adult residents who engaged in destructive mischief in the
community have been arrested and brought to justice by the community.
The "word on the street' is that North Ranch's famous hospitality and
friendliness does not extend to criminals, vandals, and even
ne'er-do-wells who cause mischief out of boredom.
This month a person who destroyed North Ranch property paid the
association $200.00
More restitution is pending from other sources. Thank you homeowners for
getting involved to keep our community safe and the quality of living at
such a high level!!
UNKNOWN ROUSTABOUTS ATTEMPT TO ENTER N. POOL AT 11 PM, LOITER IN WEE
HOURS
At 11:01 pm two men (pictured above) tried unsuccessfully to enter the
locked n. pool gate. The men may have been guests or residents of a
Mesquite 1 home. The men then entered the s. pool gate and were stopped
by security. The men became mouthy with the guards but eventually left
the pool area.
At about 1:00 the men returned with two others (1 male 1 female) and
tried once more to enter the pool but the gate would not open. They
proceeded to loiter in the children's play area, where they engaged in
wrestling and other unspecified physical activities. The group stayed at
the playground until 3:00 and left dozens of cigarette butts around the
area.
The female was driving a small red subcompact sedan. The men drove a
larger sedan...possibly an old Ford Taurus or Pontiac.
The men used a pool key which has been assigned to a previous owner. The
key has been deactivated. Anyone with information about the identity of
these men should call 624-4404 or 579-8821.
COUPLE IN TRUCK BED AT N. POOL ASKED TO LEAVE
At about 11:47 last night 07/18/08 a young couple were discovered in the
bed of a pickup truck parked in front of the north pool. The young
couple were engaged in illicit activity. Security asked the couple to
leave and they did without incident.
7/1/08
ANIMAL CONTROL REMOVES BITING DOG
At about 8:00 am on 7/1/08 a resident contacted mgmt. and board member Tony
Congi to report a dog was loose at a home on Pony Trail. The dog had jumped a
fence once before and bit a neighbor.
Congi contact animal control after attempting to put the dog back in the yard.
The dog growled at the board member and would not let anybody near it. Animal
control arrived and noted the dog wore a shock collar. "They weren't using it
properly," said J. Carver of Animal Control. Mr. Carver also said the dog was
left in direct sunlight.
RESIDENT SHAKES LOCKED GATE
A resident shook the locked small pool gate violently on the night of 6/27.
The resident may have been angry about the board's decision to lock the small
pool at dark for security reasons.
The resident also had a pet with him. Pets are not permitted in semi-public
pools per county code and the North Ranch Rules.
There gate is being examined to determine if damage was done.
The beautiful North Ranch pool fences and gates were just repainted at a cost of
about $7000.00
The next night the resident stormed to the big pool and berated the security
guard loudly for locking the small pool gate. The NRCA is investigating the
incident.
The NRCA asks angry residents to please refrain from taking out any frustrations
on the amenities we all pay for by our dues, and to treat the security guards
with respect. The guards work hard at a difficult task for not a lot of money
and are there to help keep residents safe.
6/28/08
NRCA TAKES STAND AGAINST
Update 01/25/09 This resident has moved
In case you asked, neither the Munsters nor the Adams Family have moved in (the
Munsters and Adams Family take much better care of their property than the owner
of the house pictured above).
Management, the board and the AZ Dept of Environmental Quality are all involved
in trying to get a Sky Ridge Loop resident to clean his front yard. Nestled
between meticulously landscaped and manicured Ironwood II properties, this
monstrosity stands out as the "eyesore next door."
The resident has had pool keys turned off for violations (drinking beer at the
pool) and non-payment of assessments.
Management and board member Tony Congi
regularly speak directly with residents with serious violations to determine if
there are special circumstances requiring volunteer assistance.
Yesterday at about 3:00 PM board member Congi attempted to reason with the
resident and even offered to help clean away the beer bottle garden which adorn
the driveway and front yard.
Rather then accepting
the kind offer the resident exploded with a string of four letter words and
other barnyard epithets and then threatened to "blow away" the person who tags
his illegally parked vehicle stickers.
The NRCA's position is clear: The community will not be intimidated.
The association will do everything legally possible to rectify the problem
including legal action if necessary. Thank you concerned homeowners for your
patience while the association deals with this rotten apple.
UPDATE: Some of the beer bottles have been cleared away. Thank you Tony and
members of the community for taking a stand!
If you are aware of a serious eyesore property please contact mgmt at 624-4404.
6/27/08
GUARD DISMISSED AFTER INCIDENT
The security guard did not follow instructions last night by leaving the north
pool open after 9:00 pm. The BOD has instructed security to close the
north pool when it gets dark.....now at about 9:00 pm.
An amorous couple (who have caused problems in the past) arrived after the guard
left the north pool at about 8:45 PM. The indiscreet couple proceeded to engage
in illicit behavior in the north pool and jacuzzi between 9:00 and 9:35.
Homeowners called management to report the incident. NR management contacted the
security company today. The guard who did not follow instructions has been
fired and will not be allowed on NRCA property again.
Since the guard cannot be in both places at once, the NRCA is looking for
volunteers who use the north pool to sit at the pool at night to help supplement
the security. Volunteers are needed between 6:00 and 9:00 PM.
Volunteers will be given a North Ranch Security Shirt to wear.
Interested volunteers should contact management at 784-9963 or Tony Congi
579-8821.
6/23/08
BUMBLING RESIDENT BURGLARS ARRESTED AFTER BREAK IN
Residents of two North Ranch homes broke into a neighboring property after
midnight last week, grabbed several valuable items and carried them in their
arms down Cactus Canyon Pass before being spotted by a passerby.
Police were notified and the bumbling burglars were promptly arrested on felony
charges. Thankfully nobody was injured in the break in and most of the stolen
items were recovered.
North Ranch has zero tolerance for criminal activity, be it by a resident or an
outsider.
6/13/08
BOYS WITH AIRSOFT GUNS TARGET VEHICLES ON CACTUS CANYON
A member of the North Ranch Anti-Crime Watch reported this incident involving
airsoft guns to management:
Hi Chris. Just wanted to let you know of an incident that happened
tonight (06/13). I was driving up Cactus Canyon tonight at 8:30PM
from Thornydale when I heard a CO2 powered gun shoot something at my
truck. I figured it was a paintball gun. I turned around and
went back and heard it again. So I then turned on the next street
which was about 2 streets from Thornydale. I drove around the
streets there with no findings. When I came back to Cactus Canyon
and stopped at the stop sign, I looked to my left and saw two kids
standing against the wall with bandanas on their faces and holding guns
that I assumed were paintball guns. I yelled at them to come over by my truck and asked
them what they were doing. They of course said "nothing" since
they were about 12 years old. At that time one of them ran into
the wash that was near and I drove to it and was still talking to the
other one.
I saw a phone in one of the boys pockets. I
asked for their address and one of them said it so I couldn't
understand. I told the boy with the phone to call his parents so I could
talk to them. He begged me and I told him "call"! He called
and gave me the phone. I talked to his mom and told her what had
happened and she asked to talk to her son. He then said they had to go home and were in big
trouble. I followed them and the last street I saw them on was two
streets west of the pool. It turned out that they were air soft
guns that shoot some kind of plastic ammo. If it hit someone in
the eye that was driving it could have been bad. Just wanted to
let you know. Parents of children with air soft guns are asked to
ensure the powerful toy guns are not used anywhere in the common areas
of North Ranch.
6/2/08
MARKER GRAFFITI APPEARS AT PLAYGROUND AGAIN - CLEANED AWAY BY CONGI
New juvenile graffiti appeared at the Thornydale playground was removed by
Security Committee chair Tony Congi and the management company.
Parents should
be be on the lookout for the various tags pictured on this site. Places
to look include notebooks, papers, and clothing. The NRCA is
reviewing all available footage from video sources and eyewitness
descriptions. Arrests for the vandalism are expected soon. North Ranch
has zero tolerance for crime
5/20/08
GRAFFITI CLEANED FROM THORNYDALE PLAYGROUND
Grafitti and barnyard epithets written in indelible ink were cleaned off the
playground equipment near Thornydale. Anyone with information that would
identify the children involved should contact 624-4404.
The graffiti near CATIV will be painted over soon. It has been left up while law
enforcement continued their investigation.
/15/08
5/4/08
TOILET SEAT RIPPED OUT AT SMALL POOL
Between 2 and 4:30 PM on 5/3/08 the toilet seat in the men's room at the small
pool was ripped out and placed on the metal divider, between the urinal and
sink.
Board president Harry Resnick put the seat back on the toilet, using a penny as
a screwdriver. The toilet seat will be replaced but is usable.
If anyone has any information about this incident please call 624-4404. Thank
you.
MAN SLEEPING IN GRASS OVERNIGHT ROUSTED BY CONGI
A concerned resident phoned board members Tony Congi at about 12:45 PM today to
report a man sleeping in the grass near the big pool. Congi quickly arrived at
the big pool to find a man passed out in the grass. Congi said the passed out
man looked strange and had finger nails painted different colors.
Congi called 911 and attempted to awaken the man. After about 45 seconds the man
woke up and told Congi he had been through a hard night of partying at a NR
resident's home. Congi told the man not to come back to the common areas.
5/1/08
"RAMBO" KNIFE BRANDISHED AT SMALL POOL
At about 4:30 PM
today, a homeowner called management and alerted them that there was strange
activity at the small pool. The manager contacted the security guard who was
just finishing escorting a misbehaving couple from the big pool area.
The two arrived
at the small pool and found 7 young adults...only one (a NR resident) using the
pools. Questions were asked but the young adults denied any wrongdoing.
The manager and guard quickly reviewed video
which revealed one of the young men had been brandishing a very large Bowie
knife a few minutes before the manager and guard arrived. The knife was enormous
and looked like the knives carried by Sylvester Stallone in the movie Rambo.
The manager and guard asked the young adults to leave and contacted the sheriff
department. The young man with the Bowie knife was instructed by the manager
that he is now persona non grata at the NR pools and informed him he would be
arrested for trespassing if he showed up again.
Plate numbers and addresses were taken down. The Pima County Sheriff's dept is
investigating the incident. Recently a homeowner in Ironwood 2 reported an
attempted break in by a man carrying a huge knife.
The small pool closes down after sunset due to recurring incidents such as this.
Cameras were installed to help capture criminals but do not necessarily deter
crime. A few homeowners complained about this at the last board meeting.
The new small pool hours were put into effect to protect the innocent, law
abiding resident of North Ranch. The guard cannot be in two places at once and
incidents happen very quickly.
Thank you homeowners for reporting this incident.
4/25/08
Digitally Enhanced Photo of Driver
WATCH VIDEO
(video is in slow motion)
RECKLESS DRIVER TEARS UP GRASS NEAR SMALL POOL!
At exactly 12:55 PM an apparently drunk or impaired driver nearly hit a wall at
the small pool. The driver went over the curb and onto the grass and stopped.
Then peeled out, shooting grass and dirt all over the pavement.
Afterward the driver drove around the corner on Desert Bend Loop and ran over
the common area gravel.
The vehicle involved appears to be a small Nissan, Dodge, Toyota or Ford club
cab pickup with a lift kit. Items were in the bed. The driver was a white male
wearing a white hat with a dark brim.
Anyone with information about this incident should call 911 and mgmt. at
624-4404.
4/24/08
GANG WANNABES DESECRATE NR WITH MINDLESS GIBBERISH
Mindless, cowardly markings, like those pictured above, have been discovered
around the community. The association is assisting law enforcement in hunting
down the UMC (uptown mafia crips). As soon as the vandals are caught (and they
WILL be caught) we will report it on this website and the printed Round Up.
Those with information leading to the arrest and conviction of the vandals are
eligible for a reward. Please call 624-4404 with information about the vandals.
Thank you.
RESIDENT DAMAGES ASSOCIATION SIGN, GETS ARRESTED
On 4/17 a resident affixed a protest sign to the announcement board at the
Thornydale traffic island by wrapping packing tape around and around the metal
board. Somebody removed it and placed it on the resident's property.
The resident then put up a new sign on the same metal board, this time affixing
it with large quantities of contact cement or liquid nails epoxy. This
permanently damaged the metal board. The board could not be used for announcing
the board meeting.
The resident was arrested by Pima County Sheriff's Department for criminal
damage. The resident's spouse graciously replaced the metal board with a new
one.
4/10/08
WOMAN IN WHITE DODGE DAKOTA TRUCK RAMS TREE NEAR BIG POOL
At about 6:30 PM on 4/9/08 a woman driving a white Dodge Dakota pickup truck
pulled out of the parking lot and smashed into a tree, knocking it over.
If anyone has any information about the incident please call 624-4404
4/3/08
NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS
3/28/08
AGGRESSIVE SOLICITOR ALERT!
XTREME CLEAN CALL 911 OR 624-4404 IF THEY KNOCK ON YOUR DOOR
Today an aggressive sales person from Xtreme Chemical Co of Plano, TX knocked on
the manager's door in Ironwood III. The manager informed the sales person that
soliciting was not permitted in the NRCA and requested that the sales person
leave. The manager called the company by phone and informed them that soliciting
was not permitted.
The manager offered to escort the sales person off NRCA property. The sales
person refused, became belligerent and proceeded to knock on more doors.
The Pima County Sheriff was contacted as was Security Committee Chair Tony
Congi.
Congi and two squad cars arrived and the sales person left North Ranch property.
The sales person was notified that the next time they set foot on NRCA property
they will be arrested for trespassing.
According to the company's website the product Xtreme Clean sells for $41 a
quart.
NR homeowners are asked to call 911 if any aggressive sales people knock on your
door.
NO NEWS IS GOOD NEWS
3/18/08
YOUTHS COME FORWARD, WILL PAY FOR VANDALISM
Remorseful youths took responsibility for the March 1st spray paint vandalism in
Catalina IV. The youths will pay the NRCA restitution for their misdeeds. They
will also perform community service in NR. The incident is in no way associated
with gang activity.
The NRCA may press charges against the youths. Vandalism in NR will not be
tolerated.
CASE OF BEER BOTTLES IN WASH BEHIND SPANISH HEAD
A homeowner alerted the NRCA that a case of beer bottles was thrown into the
wash behind Spanish Head Trl. If anyone has any information on this please call
624-4404.
3/8/08
DISTURBANCE OF PEACE LEADS TO ARREST ON STAGELINE
Pima County Sheriff's were called to Ironwood III at about 5:30 pm following
reports of a man screaming loudly and using profanity. Five squad cars arrived
within minutes to a home near the area where a youth was stabbed in February.
A man was seen being led away in handcuffs from a property. Thank you North
Ranch residents for continuing to take a stand against crime.
WINDOW BROKEN IN BRAWL REPAIRED
The owner of a home damaged in a street brawl over two weeks ago has repaired a
broken front window. The owner of the rental property and neighbors have been
very helpful in the investigation of the stabbing which occurred in the street
in front of his house. Thanks to everybody who got involved!
3/3/08
WALLS, VEHICLE, CULVERT SPRAY PAINTED IN CAT IV
Four letter words, barnyard epithets and crude pictures were painted with spray
paint in Catalina IV over the weekend. A drainage culvert was again hit with
paint. A dirty word was painted on a homeowner's wall and a two letters were
painted on the window of a vehicle.
The sheriff's were called and are investigating the crimes. Two cans of copper
colored paint were discovered in the common area. The vandalism was probably
done by kids between the ages of 8 and 14.
BOARD MEMBER'S CAR WINDOW SMASHED. GEAR STOLEN
A board member and Ironwood IV resident had his vehicle broken into last night.
Expensive sporting equipment was stolen.
KIDS BREAK WINDOW WITH ROCK IN IRONWOOD I
Youths walking through a wash near Bandit Trl tossed a rock through a
homeowner's window at about 2:30 PM on Saturday.
MESQUITE 1 VEHICLE WINDOW SMASHED
A vehicle parked in front of a home on Desert Bend Loop had its back window
smashed over the weekend.
Anyone with information about these crimes should call 911 ASAP. Thank
you.
2/22/08
BRAWL WITH STICKS/KNIVES ON STAGELINE: YOUTH STABBED
At about 8:45 a large group of youths and adults brawled with sticks and knives
near the 9900 block of N. Stageline in Ironwood 3. The brawl appeared to have
involved a dispute between residents at two IC3 rental properties and their
friends.
Per a deputy at the scene, a youth was stabbed in the shoulder with a knife
during the brawl. The youth was rushed to the hospital in an ambulance.
Those involved in the brawl scattered just before six squad cars from the Pima
County Sheriff's Dept arrived.
Thanks to a homeowner calling 911 the Sheriff's arrived within minutes along
with ambulances and emergency vehicles from Rural Metro.
If anyone has information about this crime please call 911 as soon as possible.
Thank you.
2/16/08
No News is Good News
2/9/08
VANDALS ARRESTED IN CATALINA 4
Juveniles who painted graffiti on the concrete drainage culvert today near
Catalina 4 were arrested after witnesses reported the vandalism to the
association.
The vandalism was reported to the manager at about 4:40 PM today. The manager
and the NRCA Vice President quickly arrived at the scene and called the Pima
County Sheriff after discovering paint cans in the drain pipe under the concrete
culvert.
Deputy Cox from the PCSD interviewed several juveniles who implicated each
other. Since the area vandalized was part of NRCA common area property the
association will be the party pressing charges.
This is third incident of graffiti in North Ranch in the last 12 months.
The association has implemented an anti-tagging crackdown involving residents in
every subdivision, management and the Security Committee; all of whom stay on
constant "alert." Not surprisingly the taggers were caught this time.
Two homeowners, including one rental owner, may be charged for the costs of
cleaning up the graffiti.
The NRCA has a zero tolerance for tagging.
Thank you homeowners for getting involved!
NORTH RANCH HAS ITS OWN ANTI-CRIME WATCH
With the help of management and BOD support, the North Ranch Security Committee
has successfully networked with concerned residents to form a highly effective
anti-crime watch all over the community.
Every subdivision has residents who are watching out for crime and other
suspicious activities. The residents are then reporting what they see to
management and the Security Committee by phone or email
Unlike some crime watch programs which ask people to just report crimes after
they become a victim, North Ranch's anti-crime watch is proactive and has
resulted in a number of arrests for crimes ranging from narcotics to vandalism
over the last few months.
If you would like to join the North Ranch Anti Crime Watch please call
management at 624-4404 or email
management.
BIG TEX TRAILER, DIRT BIKE, ATV STOLEN IN JANUARY
A red 2005 Honda Rancher 350 quad and a red 2004 Honda CRF-250X dirt bike and
the trailer they were stored on were all stolen on January 19th from a home on
Desert Ranch.
Call 906-5862 if you have any information about the theft. There is a $500.00
reward.
12/20/07
MAILBOX BREAK IN ON DESERT BEND LOOP
Thieves pried open package boxes at a mailbox unit
on Desert Bend Loop last week. Residents are asked to please check their mail
daily and report any suspicious activities to 911 and the US Postal Service.
Updated
November 26th 2007
TWO HOMES BROKEN INTO LAST WEEK
A house on Canyon Brook Trail was broken into on Wednesday November 20th between 12:15 and 2:00 PM. While the homeowner was out for a short while, somebody hopped the large wall bordering the walking trail behind Canyon Brook. After hopping the wall the thief broke a window and entered the home. A gun safe was ripped from a wall and pried open. The homeowner said the only thing missing was some jewelry.
Another break in occurred somewhere on Desert Bend Loop. Details are forthcoming
Updated November 20th 2007
SHOWER HEAD VANDALIZED BEFORE 7:30 AM TODAY
Somebody with tools has vandalized the s. pool shower head yet again. This time it happened before 7:30 AM. Anyone with information on the vandalism should contact management at 624-4404.
Vandalism by juveniles has stopped completely in the community. The only vandalism which remains is because perpetrated by adults with an axe to grind. The association remains steadfast in its intent to capture and prosecute the adults who are vandalizing community property.
As soon as an arrest is made the community will be notified.
Updated November 13th 2007
LARGE AMOUNT OF SOAP SHUTS DOWN BIG POOL TEMPORARILY
Phosphate levels at the big pools have been off the charts this week. Phosphates come from fertilizer, organic matter and soaps. It is highly unusual to see such a large amount of phosphates this time of the year because of low wintertime pool usage.
This raises the question whether somebody is purposely putting soap in the pools. Earlier this week somebody put oily french fries in the hot tub.
The pool will be close for a day or two while the soap is removed.
Updated November 9th 2007
FRENCH FRIES SHUT DOWN S. POOL JACUZZI
An oil slick shut down the jacuzzi last night and it was feared that a vandal might have poured oil in the normally pristine hot tub. Early this morning an inspection of the pool basket revealed the culprit to be French Fries.
SHOWER HEAD PLATE, O-RING FOUND BEHIND 911 SIGN
A steel plate and o-ring from the vandalized shower head appeared behind the 911 emergency sign at the s. pool. The vandal was apparently trying to hide evidence by placing the shower parts behind the sign, but they fell to the bottom, coming to rest on top of the emergency phone.
Updated November 3rd 2007
SERIAL VANDAL ON HOLIDAY? SHOWER HEAD SURVIVES 3 DAYS
The shower head which has been the target of a serial vandal has survived 3 days without being assaulted.
Several homeowners, management, contractors, board and committee members are standing watch over the shower heads to prevent further vandalism.
Although there are no verifiable "persons of interest" the Security Committee has produced this profile of the serial vandal:
PROFILE OF A SHOWER HEAD VANDAL
The vandal may be a retired person or non-working person who frequents the pools often. The vandal may be a person who is angry with the association, the board or management and has an axe to grind. The vandal has mechanical abilities and may take long showers. The vandal may carry tools such as wrenches, pliers and hooks into the shower stall. The vandal may have communicated strong feelings against the use of the INCREDIBLE water-saving shower head.
Anyone with information leading to the arrest and conviction of the shower head vandal will be eligible for a reward of $14.01
NORMAL INCREDIBLE SHOWER HEAD ON LEFT WITH BUTTON INTACT
DAMAGED ONE ON THE RIGHT WITH BUTTON, O-RING AND SPECIAL WATER SAVING FLOW PLATE REMOVED. REMOVAL OF FLOW PLATE COULD CAUSE SHOWER HEAD TO EMIT HIGH PRESSURE STREAM AKIN TO A WATER PIC
Updated October 31st 2007
SHOWER HEAD VANDALIZED ONCE AGAIN
COULD ACTIONS OF VANDAL BE "CRY FOR HELP"
A bizarre string of vandalism against the popular INCREDIBLE water saving shower head is leaving the community puzzled.
Early this morning before 7:30 AM the shower head was dismantled and gutted of vital parts. This caused the shower head to operate erratically, with water shooting out in all directions.
In a letter to the editor of the NY Times, a clinical psychologist described the acts of such vandals as a "cry for help." While vandalism is typically committed by youths the shower head vandalism is almost certainly the act of an adult with an axe to grind.
Dr. Dan Lobel wrote in his letter to the NY Times "this sort of behavior generally occurs when an individual is experiencing intense frustration and/or rage and has a weak capacity to cope with these feelings. The result is an expression in the form of antisocial acts. These behaviors should be viewed as cries for help. They are attempting to draw attention to their pain in the only way that they know to be heard."
The doctor also warned that the vandal may then turn on people next: "If destruction of property is insufficient to draw attention to their need for help, then destruction to other persons may occur. This may result in frequent arguing with others and highly unstable relationships, self-destructive behaviors or felonious assault."
Residents witnessing vandalism to the shower head or elsewhere in North Ranch need to remember that the person doing the vandalism may be mentally unbalanced or under the influence of intoxicants. Do not attempt to apprehend the vandal yourself for your own safety.
Call 911 and tell the operator you want officers to MAKE CONTACT.
Updated October 30th 2007
REPLACEMENT SHOWER HEAD DAMAGED BY A PERSON WITH "MECHANICAL ABILITIES"
The popular INCREDIBLE water saving shower head was vandalized today by a person with "mechanical abilities" before 7:30 AM. The shower head was dismantled and "o" rings were removed and thrown on the deck. Water was shooting out of the top of the shower head.
The association was advised to contact the Pima County Sheriffs Dept.
The vandal is most likely not a juvenile but an adult with an axe to grind. The vandal may be carrying pliers, a Crescent-type wrench, hooks or other tools.
Homeowners who witness future vandalism in the pool areas are advised not to try and apprehend the person themselves, but to call 911 as the vandal may be drunk, stoned or mentally unbalanced.
The association will pay a reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the shower head vandal.
INCREDIBLE WATER SAVING SHOWER HEAD SWIPED FROM S. POOL SHOWER
The highly popular water-saving INCREDIBLE shower head at the s. pool was removed yesterday by an unknown person and replaced by a water wasting luxury shower head. Fortunately the water wasting luxury shower head was spotted by the security guard and it was quickly replaced by another INCREDIBLE shower head.
The INCREDIBLE water saving shower heads were installed because of concerns about excessive water usage in the community.
The INCREDIBLE water saving shower head has a revolutionary design that saves gallons of precious water.
If anyone knows who took away the shower head please contact management or Security Committee Chairman Tony Congi.
The association will pay a reward of $4.97 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the thief.
VANDAL WITH GREEN PERMANENT MARKER DEFACES COMMUNITY SIGN
A rectangular dry erase marker board used to announce meetings and social events was defaced with a permanent marker. The sign which was to be used for last week's board meeting and to announce the Halloween candy event at the pool is now unusable.
Now the association has no way other than the website to effectively notify residents about upcoming events.
An apparently disgruntled person wrote:
"THIS IS TOO MUCH. PLEASE RE-INSTATE _ _ _!"
The incident occurred at the north pool on a day when the sign was posted near the Jacuzzi when it was closed 1 day for maintenance.
The vandal was apparently demanding the association rehire a former pool technician of the association.
An effort is being made to determine if the vandalism was captured by on video. If anyone knows who vandalized the sign please contact management or Security Committee Chairman Tony Congi.
The association will pay a reward of $20.00 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the vandal.
Updated October 24th 2007
WINDOW BROKEN BY AIRSOFT GUN IN IRONWOOD IV
A window of an Ironwood IV home was shattered by a powerful BB fired by an airsoft gun. Airsoft guns can be high-powered BB guns made to look exactly like military weapons such as an AK-47, M16 or they are modeled after popular handguns such as Glocks or 1911's.
Parents are asked to please supervise their children who play with airsoft guns.
Updated October 5th 2007
ARE PROWLERS CASING NORTH RANCH HOMES?
Early Saturday (9/29/07) morning at 1:00 AM somebody rang the doorbell on a Sky Ridge Loop home. The homeowner looked out the window and saw nobody. Later on Saturday night the doorbell rang at 9:00. Again there was no one to be seen.
On Friday 10/5/07 children in CAT IV reported other children had been ringing doorbells and running off.
Similar incidents have occurred in other North Ranch subdivisions throughout the year.
If you hear your doorbell ringing in the wee hours of the morning it is probably not a little kid.
Call 911. You must tell the 911 operator you want a deputy to make contact or they will not come.
Updated September 22nd 2007
(Not actual North Ranch dope)
POT BUST IN WASH NEAR SKY RANCH TRAIL
Two youths were arrested today in an apparent pot bust near the concrete wash by Pima County Sherriff's deputies. The wash has been under surveillance by several homeowners, the manager and security committee members.
Dopeheads had been frequenting the wash almost every day. 911 had been called many times but the busy deputies had always arrived too late, up to now. On 9/23/07 at about 10:00 a homeowner called the manager and reported that 911 was called and "they were in the wash again."
Two squad cars quickly arrived. Dopers could be seen scampering down the wash. At lease two arrests were made. One of those arrested was a NR resident.
Kudos to all those involved in helping to stamp out drug use in North Ranch! Remember: Only dopes use dope.
NEW POOL CAMERAS:
NRCA DOES NOT GUARANTY PRIVACY IN COMMON AREAS
An upgraded surveillance camera system has been purchased for the north pool area. The new system will be accessible by authorized personnel via the internet and direct connection. Audio and video of illicit or criminal activity can be recorded to a DVR. A copy of the incriminating audio and video can then be made available to law enforcement.
The North Ranch Community Association common areas are not private. There is no guaranty of privacy at the pools or other common areas. Those who abuse pool privileges or commit crimes are not welcome in the association's common areas.
N. POOL PETTY SOAP THIEF MAY SOON BE ARRESTED
N. pool users have been asking for soap in the restrooms for weeks. Eager to please, the new janitorial service put in soap dispensers.
On 9/21/07 a petty thief stole the soap dispensers in the middle of the day.
Thanks to the petty criminal, distraught n. pool restroom users are once again unable to sanitize their hands after using the facilities.
Tips are coming in to the security committee about the alleged soap thief. If an arrest is made the NRCA will prosecute the petty criminal to the fullest extent of the law.
Updated September 4th 2007
STOLEN NR VEHICLE FOUND
A gold Ford F250 extended cab pickup truck holding an Artic Cat 500 ATV that was stolen from a home on 9/3/07 was found in a wash southeast of North Ranch.
Updated September 1st 2007
Early risers in Moon Ridge were surprised by the appearance of a late model Toyota Scion right in the middle of the basketball basin.
Pima County Sherriff's Deputies told the NR manager that the odd looking, box-like vehicle (popular among Generation Y types) was, in fact, a stolen car. The vehicle was removed later.
Updated August 30th 2007
VICIOUS PIT BULL TYPE DOG ATTACK IN NR
A pit bull type dog owned by a NR resident viciously attacked two dogs and one owner near the volleyball basin and near Desert Bend Loop on 8/31/07 at about 8:15 AM. The dog attacks were unprovoked.
A NR resident was bitten by the pit bull type dog while fending off the attack. The victim's small dog Buster also defended himself valiantly.
Buster's owner suffered a serious gash on his thumb from pulling Buster out of the pit bull type dog's massive jaws. Despite the serious bite wound Buster's owner showed little concern for himself and indicated he would be taking Buster to the vet before seeking treatment for his own wounds.
A NR military resident named Dante, the manager and another homeowner were in the area when the attack occurred. The residents ran towards the scene to help. The pit bull type dog ran past the manager toward the s. pool gate, and then darted off into Mesquite 1.
While in Mesquite 1, the pit bull type dog bit another dog, 13 pound Gypsy. Gypsy's owner tried to fight off the pit bull with a walking stick. According to Gypsy's owner Vince the pit bull "did get Gypsy in it's mouth and shook her." Vince told Gypsy to "go home." Gypsy made it home through an open door with Vince following behind her.
Gypsy's owner said, "We are definitely going to pursue this, not for money, but children are waiting for school buses or getting home from school. What happens if a child is attacked, if a grown man can't beat a dog off?"
After attacking Gypsy the pit bull type dog was spotted by Dante who was attempting to locate the dog. The animal was secured by the military resident with the help of Mesquite 1 resident Dan Jones, who bravely calmed the dog and attached a leash. The brute was delivered to the NR manager near the s. pool shortly thereafter. The manager then turned the pit bull type dog over to the authorities.
Animal Control said the attacking dog's owner will soon be going to court and faces stiff penalties. It has been learned that the dog did not have license and was not current on shots. The dog was not wearing a collar. It is unknown whether or not the pit bull type dog will be destroyed.
Neighbors said the pit bull type dog has a lot energy and has been basically neglected by the dog's owner.
Thank you all NR residents who helped out. With so many children in the area at the time it could have been much worse.
Updated August 19th 2007
NR PAID AT LEAST $1370 TO REPAIR "VANDALIZED" IRRIGATION IN 2007
According to the landscape company lawn sprayers and irrigation parts are damaged by vandals every month. While other vandalism occurs in NR there is really nothing to compare to the systematic destruction of these parts. Large gashes in the heavy duty plastic fixtures suggest the vandals are far more cunning than average, and could be using power tools or lawn equipment to carry out their destructive acts.
Despite ramped up security and vigilant patrols by homeowners nobody has a clue who the vandals are despite monthly damages. All damages will be reported to the Pima County Sheriff. If you have any idea who is causing the serial vandalism please call 624-4404 or email the management company at azhomellc@aol.com
1/10/07 Lawn sprayers and PVC – Replace 6 parts
Cost $168.00
Locations: Spanish Head (2) Sky Ridge Loop East (1), Wind Walker (2), Eastern Fork (1)
1/30/07 Lawn sprayers and PVC – Replace 3 parts Cost $185.00
Locations: S.Pool (1), Thornydale South (1), Thornydale North (1)
2/20/07 Lawn Sprayers and PVC – Replace 2 parts Cost $52.00
Locations: Eastern Fork (2)
3/15/07 Ratcheting Lawn Sprayer – Replace 2 parts Cost: $98.00
Locations: Basketball basin (1), Thornydale South (1)
3/15 to 4/15 Unavailable
5/15/07 Lawn Sprayers and PVC Parts – Replace 9 parts Cost: $322.00
Locations: Pepperwood (1), Eastern Fork (2), Desert Bend (1), Shannon (2), Thornydale South (3) ratcheting sprayers
6/15/07 Lawn Sprayers and PVC Parts – Replace 13 parts Cost: $440.00
Locations: Pepperwood (1), Thundercloud East (3), Shannon (1), Spanish Head (2), N. Pool (1), S.Pool (2), Thornydale South (2 ratchet lawn sprayers), Meadow Flower (1 section of ½ inch drip poly torn out of ground).
7/15/07 Lawn Sprayers and PVC Parts – Replace 5 parts Cost: $105.00
Locations: Sky Ridge (2), Spanish Head (1), behind tennis court (2).
Updated July 31st 2007
ANGRY YOUTH TOSSES ROCK THROUGH MANAGER'S WINDOW.BUSTED YOUTH MAD AT BEING KICKED OUT OF POOLS
At around 7:45 PM tonight a stone came smashing through the window of a North Ranch resident's home. The damaged window was an expensive triple-pane window. Glass shards littered the kitchen of the Ironwood Canyon III home. The rock broke through a screen, three panes of thick glass, a heavy blind, and flew approximately 20 feet before hitting a wall and bouncing back across the family room.
A resident was in the kitchen when the rock flew across her. Thankfully, no one was injured but the resident was badly frightened by the crime. Glass shards could be seen impaling apples in a fruit bowl along the stone's flight path.
The young perpetrator does not live in North Ranch but frequents the pools and residences.
At about 9:30 PM the homeowner and another homeowner confronted 4 youths (3 boys and 1 girl) walking down Pony Trail. The two homeowners spoke with the youths and accompanied them back to another resident's house on Pony Trail. One youth turned out to be the same one who cussed out a board member and "mooned" him a couple of days ago. The youth, who said he was 15 1/2 smelled of alcohol.
Later, a Pima County Sheriff's deputy arrived and the youth promptly confessed to breaking the window. The youth was visiting a friend on Pony Trail for a "sleepover." He said he broke the window because the homeowner had checked their pool keys at the n. pool on Saturday night.
The homeowner is expected to seek full restitution from the young malefactor and prosecute the youth to the fullest extent of the law.
The area on W. Pony Trail has recently seen a lot of "tagging" and other problems related to juvenile delinquency.
At least two youths are North Ranch residents (1 girl and 1 boy). Their parents have been notified. It is unknown where the rock-throwing miscreant obtained the booze.
TAGGERS DESECRATE PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT WITH PROFANE MARKINGS
Parents beware. Profanity and obscene drawings are all over the playground equipment. Board member Centuori tried to clean the graffiti with Goof Off but it did not work.
Updated May 6th 2007
LOITERERS FAIL KEY CHECK, EXPELLED FROM N. POOL BY "NIGHTHAWK" KNOX
Last night at from 9:00 to 11:00 PM directors Doug Knox and Chris Centuori did their customary weekend night patrol of the common areas. All was quiet until about 10:00 PM when Knox spotted 12 youths entering the North Pool. Knox did a key check and found only one key holder in the party. The youths left the pool area.
Bird buffs are encouraged to visit the South Pool at night to view the flight patterns of a hawk whose nest is in the adjacent tree. The nighthawk flies in a circular pattern around the pool area, ready to pounce on unsuspecting mice and bunnies. It is truly a sight to behold.
Updated May 5th 2007
TAGGERS DESECRATE N. POOL RESTROOMS WITH MARKERS
Two incidents involving taggers with permanent markers occurred at the north pool this week. A homeowner living near the north pool saw two teenaged boys writing gang graffiti near the shower with permanent markers. The homeowner confronted the boys who apologized, erased the marks with cleaning fluid, and turned over their markers to the homeowner.
Last night at 9:30 PM board member Centuori entered the north pool area and found gang graffiti in both restrooms, on the mirrors, metal stalls, windows and walls.
Except for the markings on the women's room wall, which needs to be repainted, the graffiti was removed with Goof Off.
EGGS FLY ON DESERT BEND/CRYSTAL SPRINGS
Eggs were thrown at several houses along Desert Bend Loop and Crystal Springs. The "eggings" occurred sometime early Friday morning. Board President Resnick and Secretary Chris Centuori met with several concerned homeowners in the area on Friday May 4th to discuss the incident.
Homeowners are encouraged to report egg throwing to the Pima County Sheriff's Department.
Updated April 30th 2007
YOUNG ADULTS (NOT NR RESIDENTS) PLAY SOCCER ON TENNIS COURT
At about 9:30 pm 4/29/07 a homeowner spotted four (4) young men playing soccer on the tennis court. The homeowner politely asked the young men to stop playing soccer on the court. The young men got "mouthy" and argued about no rules being posted prohibiting soccer balls from the tennis courts. The young men told the homeowner to "go back to jogging" and "go back to listening to your Ipod." The homeowner called the sheriff's department. The young men quickly left the scene.
Updated April 24th 2007
SKATEBOARDERS DAMAGE TENNIS COURT
A homeowner reported damage to the tennis court caused by skateboarding youths. The skateboarders were using on the tennis court over the weekend. Parents who allow their children to ride skateboards on the tennis court will be responsible for any damages incurred.
Updated April 18th 2007
FIRE DEPT VISITS WHEN RESIDENT BURNS GARBAGE IN YARD
Tennis players called the fire department at 8:30 pm on 4/17/07 after smelling smoke in the area. Board member Centuori spoke with the fire department personnel about the incident. The firemen searched the common areas for brush fires and burning garbage cans but could not find any.
The firemen traced the smoke to a resident near the south pool who was burning garbage in his yard. Fortunately, the fire was contained in the yard.
Residents who smell smoke should always call 911. Better safe than sorry.
MIDDLE AGED COUPLE INDECENT IN S. POOL
A middle aged couple were engaged in indecent activity in the south pool at 10:00 pm 4/16, according to other North Ranch residents who were also at the pool. Residents should call 911 immediately if they see such activity in public.
CARPET CLEANER DUMPS FOUL WATER ON WESTERN FORK
A carpet cleaning company dumped loads of foul grey water on Western Fork Trl at about 5:00 pm on 4/17/07. The incident was reported to board member Centuori by a homeowner. Centuori and board president Resnick questioned the carpet cleaner who said it was his "fist day on the job."
The homeowner asked the board members to call the "wildcat" dumping hotline to report the incident, which they did.
Updated April 8th 2007
PLAYGROUND COVER USED AS HAMMOCK BY OUTSIDERS
At about 10:00 PM 4/7/07 a group of about 25 youths in several cars were spotted "partying" in the s. pool parking lot by the recreation committee chair. The committee chair turned on the tennis court lights to brighten the area. At that time the committee chair noticed two young adults lying on top of the canvas which covers the playground equipment. The board member told the two to get down and asked if they were residents. The two said they were not.
A suspicious vehicle was parked at the far end of the parking lot. The committee chair called 911 and the sheriff was dispatched to the area. It is not known if any arrests were made.
Updated April 1st 2007
DRUG USE AT N. POOL LEADS TO ARREST
An arrest was made on Sunday March 25th at about 9:00 pm at the n. pool after a homeowner called 911 to report drug use.
Rec committee members and concerned homeowners are patrolling the pools and common areas. Committee members are out daily in the afternoon and evening talking with residents at the pools and "getting to know" the area youths.
STATUES, LIGHTS STOLEN FROM STRATTON SADDLE HOME
A valuable ceramic statue and outdoor accent lighting was stolen last week from a home on Stratton Saddle. A homeowner also reported a doorbell was rung at 3:00 AM.
Homeowners should call 911 when incidents such as these occur.
Updated March 21st 2007
REC COMMITTEE TO ASK BOARD TO PROHIBIT ALCOHOL FROM POOLS, RAMADA, AND PARKING LOT
In response to growing safety and liability concerns, the Recreation, Pools and Common Area Patrol Committee will request board vote to immediately ban all alcoholic beverages from the pool area and adjacent parking lot.
Currently, residents and guests are allowed consume alcohol anywhere around the pool as long as the beverage is not in a glass container. The board is expected to vote on the measure to prohibit alcohol at next week's board meeting.
Updated March 20th 2007
REC COMMITTEE MEMBER CLEARS POOL AREAS OF UNDERAGE DRINKERS
Underage drinking occurred in the south pool area yesterday at about 4:30 pm. Recreation committee member Diane-Marie Landsinger asked the youths to leave and they did. Thank you Diane.
BEER GUZZLING YOUNG PEOPLE AT N. POOL POLITE AND COOPERATIVE WHILE BREAKING POOL RULES
Committee members Chris Centuori and Harry Resnick arrived at the north pool to check the water quality at about 9:00 pm. At that time nine young men and one young lady were drinking beer in and around the pool area. The young lady and some young men were fully clothed while sitting in the Jacuzzi water.
One young man tried to enter the pool using a credit card to open the gate. A resident named "Mike" put down his beer and opened the gate. Afterward committee members questioned four young men and asked if they were residents. Committee members suggested the group move their party to the south pool where there is more room under the ramada for refreshments and socializing.
With the exception of one guest's use of vulgarity in the presence of a lady, the young people were very polite, respectful, and relatively quiet. They soon left the pool area altogether and their cooperation is appreciated.
Water test results proved to be satisfactory.
Updated March 19th 2007
S. POOL PARKING LOT TRASHED AFTER POOL CLOSES SATURDAY NIGHT
Broken glass, underwear, feminine hygiene products and condoms littered the s. pool parking lot near the tennis courts over the weekend.
After many homeowners reported about problems at the pools, board members Harry Resnick, Chris Centuori and Rec/Pools Committee member Doug Knox stood watch of the pool area from 8:30 to 11:00 on Friday night and 9:00 to 10:30 on Saturday. The incidents occurred after Resnick and Centuori left the pool area to be with their families.
Resnick and Centuori have requested a key log from Haven Management of all those entering the pool area between 9:00 and 11:00. Haven Management responded by saying they will provide the information, but not until the board meeting next Tuesday.
Responding to homeowners who said the off-duty deputies were not seen patrolling the common areas recently, board President Resnick specifically instructed Haven Management to have the deputies patrol the pool areas between 9:00 pm and 11:00. Despite this specific instruction to Haven Management, no security service was seen anywhere around the pools over the St. Patrick's Day weekend.
On Monday, Resnick received a phone call from Haven Management. Haven told Resnick the off-duty deputies are prohibited from patrolling the common areas between 9:00 and 11:00 pm by their employer, Pima County Sheriffs Department. This information contradicts the security "contract" which states the deputies can be on patrol until 2:00 am.
Resnick says the security patrol will be on the agenda at the next board meeting and the board will decide whether or not to continue using the off-duty deputies. The program has an annual budget of $30,000.0
Updated March 14th 2007
HOMEOWNER REPORTS DRUG USE, ILLICIT ACTIVITIES COMMON AT N. POOL
(From Homeowner's Letter)
"I am a Homeowner here at North Ranch. Approximately one year ago my family and I purchased and moved into a house located just adjacent to the north pool. We were very excited with the North Ranch community and being in close proximity to the pool, however that excitement soon turned to disappointment when we started to see the kind of activity that is carried out at this pool on a regular basis.
Since I have been here, I have personally witnessed on a weekly basis the following activity by teenagers and adults: OPEN S***** INTERCOURSE, OPEN ORAL S**, OPEN DRUG USE (crack, meth, marijuana) UNDERAGE DRINKING, DRUNKENNESS AND CAROUSING (jumping off rooftop and fences, fighting, and constant vulgar language etc.) disrespectful teenagers playing loud music with obscene lyrics. and the list goes on. As you can see, these things are not the kind of things one would like to have happen in front of His home.
I have notified the police, and on the occasions they were able to make it out, their were arrest made each time. The current patrol times are virtually ineffective as this activity usually is happening between the hours of 9-11 pm. We should certainly be able to call or make contact with the deputy on patrol to curtail this activity. I feel their should be someone available at all times to ask people to leave when they are acting in this matter. I beg of you to work together to help put an end to this and resolve to restore law and order in this NORTH POOL area.
Updated March 6th 2007
ATTEMPTED CAR BREAK IN
On Thursday March 1st 2007 between 8 and 10 pm an attempted auto theft took place on W. Pony Trail. A window was smashed on the vehicle and it appeared a screwdriver was used to try and pry open the door. The resident on W. Pony Trail had just moved into the home a few days earlier.
EGGS THROWN AT HOMES AND POOL
On the weekend of February 23rd a medium-sized green SUV was seen driving around High Meadow Trail, with a young man protruding from the sunroof tossing eggs at a house. The same car was seen tossing eggs at the north pool.
Eggs have also been thrown at homes and vehicles near Stageline and also Desert Bend Loop.
ROCK CRASHES THROUGH WINDOW
A few weeks ago a homeowner was almost injured when a large rock came crashing through a living room window.
