In 2009 car break–ins were a big problem in Columbia, and according to Richland County Officer Kevin Stegall it is still an issue in Columbia. Officer Stegall told the residents who attended the Melrose Heights Neighborhood Meeting on January 11 that a way to prevent these crimes from happening is to remove any valuable items, even coins, from your vehicle.

Officer Stegall said Project Hope stands for Helping Our Precious Elderly. Coordinators of this project, who are retired law enforcement, visit and call approximately 600 elderly in the Columbia area. If anyone knows of an elderly person who needs someone to check on them, contact Project Hope at 576-3000.

Melrose Heights President Fred Easily told the residents to be careful about allowing strangers to do work inside or outside their home.