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Some readers we DON'T want

We've discussed before whether criminals read newspapers. Honestly, I have no idea, which means I can argue it either way.

But here's a Sheriff's Department in Wisconsin that thinks they do, according to a TV news report. At least the smart ones.

Burglars are using information from the newspaper to hit homes where they know no one will be home. Last night we told you about burglars in Stoughton who police believe are checking the obituaries and targeting people at funerals.

Tonight we have evidence that the problem is spreading across Dane County and the thieves responsible are taking any information they can get from the newspaper.

For years, I've heard about this. We have had friends housesit when we have attended family funerals.

Snopes addresses it, too.

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Tags: Crime

Posted by John Robinson on Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at 2:16 pm

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lexalexander

November 19, 2009 - 3:33 pm EST

At the first funeral I can recall in my life, that of a great-uncle when I was around 6, I remember the grownups discussing who would stay at the house to prevent any possible break-in. This was in a not-at-all-break-in-prone neighborhood in Charleston.

These things are like shark attacks: They're incredibly rare, but that doesn't mean you want to go swimming in the ocean at dusk with a bleeding cut on your leg.