Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona: Best of HMS Podcasts - Thursday, March 13, 2025
Release Date: March 13, 2025
Introduction
In this compilation episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness (HMS), host John Holmberg alongside co-hosts Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, and Dick Toledo delve into a compelling listener-submitted story about a home invasion by South American cartel members in March 2024. The discussion blends serious insights on home security with the show's signature humor and lively banter.
Listener's Harrowing Experience
The episode opens with John Holmberg sharing an email from a listener named Kevin, whose father experienced a terrifying home invasion in Scottsdale. [01:08]
John: "I got this email from a guy, this is amazing. [...] My dad started yelling, he said, but there was no communication. No English was being spoken in this house." [01:08]
Kevin recounts how his father, while dining outdoors, heard a loud boom indicating a window was broken. He returned to find burglars inside, stealing valuable watches and wall art. Authorities identified the culprits as part of a South American gang responsible for 38 burglaries in the North Scottsdale area. [02:06]
John: "At least 38 astronomical burglars. I didn't know that." [02:06]
Strategies to Prevent Home Burglaries
The co-hosts discuss effective measures to safeguard homes against such intrusions. They emphasize the importance of:
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Visible Security Measures: Keeping televisions and lights on to simulate occupancy. [02:14]
Brad: "They recommend keeping a television on or lights." [02:14]
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Canine Companions: Owning a dog, as burglars dislike noise and potential threats. [02:17]
John: "Burglars hate noises. But evidently this guy was sitting at home around dinner time." [02:17]
Brad Bogen humorously suggests placing valuable but non-essential items outside to deter thieves.
Brad: "I'm preempting. I put some old stereo equipment and some other values out front for them." [02:50]
John adds a playful twist by suggesting that making one's home appear as a target might lead to burglar disappointment.
John: "You have nothing. You got nothing really good." [08:33]
Humorous Take on Household Security
The conversation takes a lighter turn as the hosts joke about the idea of having no valuable items to steal. They mockingly discuss the absurdity of minimalistic living as a security measure.
John: "If you stole it, you'd be like, and if you stole it, I would replace it in no time." [09:17]
Ronnie chimes in with a humorous scenario about burglars trashing non-valuable items like cans.
Ronnie: "Look, I'm in these tattered South American rags. You did that. Where are my cans?" [08:46]
The Reality of South American Gangs
The hosts express concern over the increasing presence of South American gangs in residential neighborhoods, highlighting the need for heightened awareness and security. They discuss how these gangs are methodically targeting homes, emphasizing that traditional security measures might need to be re-evaluated.
John: "South American gang robbers. Yeah." [02:00]
John reflects on his personal approach to home security, noting that despite having minimal valuables, the risk remains.
John: "I need to safe up or hide or. I used to have cash, but I've given up on that." [07:57]
Community Impact and Personal Reflections
The discussion broadens to the impact of these burglaries on the community and personal safety. The hosts share anecdotes about stolen property not being inherently valuable, yet causing significant distress to homeowners.
John: "It makes me upset when I watch somebody talk about what was stolen from their home." [07:57]
They lament the loss of seemingly insignificant items, questioning the motives behind the burglars' choices.
John: "I still don't want them to break in. I'm not encouraging it, but I am kind of like, well, they never would want me." [12:37]
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
As the episode wraps up, John Holmberg reiterates the importance of home security while maintaining a humorous outlook on the situation. The hosts encourage listeners to assess their own security measures and consider the value of their possessions.
John: "Sorry, you're right. You guys want some turf? That stuff cost me a fortune." [14:23]
The episode concludes with a blend of humor and seriousness, leaving listeners both entertained and informed about the escalating issue of home burglaries by South American gangs in Arizona.
Key Takeaways
- Preventive Measures: Utilize visible security measures like lights and TVs, and consider having a dog to deter burglars.
- Home Valuables: Assess the value of household items and understand that even non-valuable possessions can cause distress when stolen.
- Community Awareness: Stay informed about local crime trends and collaborate with neighbors to enhance community security.
- Personal Security: Reflect on personal security practices and consider upgrading or reevaluating them in response to emerging threats.
This episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness successfully blends engaging storytelling with practical advice, all while maintaining the show's characteristic humor and camaraderie among hosts.