This week, the Picayune Police Department reported some good news; one of the culprits who robbed a man at a local car wash has been identified and two have been arrested.

Living in Picayune comes with a number of benefits, one of which is the relatively low crime rate. But we are not immune to the evils that plague humankind. At times homes are burgled, people are robbed and deaths occur unnaturally.

So, it’s good to hear that even if something criminal does occur in our quiet town, the local law enforcement agencies will step up to the task and investigate the case thoroughly. But they can use our help.

Part of what led to a positive outcome of this case is the victim’s ability to stay calm and avoid prompting the thieves to take more deadly measures to steal his money. If not, then detectives would have had a much bigger case to work. Just remember, money is never more important than your life.

But, if you do fall victim to a robbery, there are some steps you can take to help ensure you live to tell the tale. First, as stated earlier, stay cool and give the thieves what they want. As the crime is occurring it will be scary, leading some people to neglect to take note of key details that could assist in an investigation. Taking note of any and all details will go a long way in getting the case solved. Anything that can be remembered that would help the detectives, including hair color, skin tone, eye color, height, visible tattoos and especially the vehicle the suspects uses.

If you can, get the tag number of the vehicle. And if more than one suspect is involved, be sure to listen to conversations that take place between them, especially if they use names or nicknames.  And most of all, report the crime to the nearest law enforcement agency as soon as possible. With any luck the details you recall, combined with the subsequent investigation, will mean  those responsible for the crime will see justice.