Arrested Burglary Suspect Entered Home Through Pet Door

A suspect arrested for a pair of burglaries in west Arvada allegedly made his way into homes through the tightest of spaces: a doggie door.

Justin Slinker, age 19, of Arvada faces charges of burglary for crimes occurring in the area of 80th an Alkire St. in mid-January, 2012.

Slinker allegedly removed jewelry from one of the homes and later sold some of the items at an area gold-buying business. He was arrested on January 13, 2012.

While using a doggie door to gain access to a home may seem unique, police warn this type of entry does occur, and residents should follow these prevention tips:

· Lock the doors and windows in your home.

· If you have a fence, ensure the gates are locked.

· Keep your garage door closed, even when you're home.

· Lock the door leading from your garage to your home.

· Turn on the lights in your home when you're away.

· Install motion sensors to activate lights inside and outside of your home.

· For residents with doggie doors, install a sensor so a light will activate when your pet uses the door or someone tries to gain access.

· Consider purchasing a doggie door with security features including a locking component.

· Make sure you stop newspaper service when vacationing.

· Report suspicious activity in your neighborhood to police at 720-898-6900.

Another important tip is to catalogue items of value in your home including jewelry and electronics.

Maintaining a picture file is also important for insurance purposes and to assist detectives in the event you are a crime victim.