Concrete Brick on Doorstep: A Warning Sign for Gold Coast Residents

A confused Upper Coomera couple found a brick sitting on their frontstep. But how on earth could it help with criminals conducting their activities?

Finn Johnson

Dec 15, 2024 - 2 min read

An Upper Coomera couple was shocked to find a 20-centimetre concrete brick sitting on their front doorstep while bringing in the bins. This seemingly harmless object is actually a tactic commonly used by criminals scoping out homes to determine if residents are present.

Here’s how it works: the brick is placed discreetly on the doorstep, and the criminals monitor whether it remains there over time. If the brick hasn’t been moved, they assume no one is home and may attempt to break into the house. If the brick is removed, it signals that the residents are present, and the criminals are likely to avoid that property.

The couple shared the story to Gold Coast Crime - The Gold Coast Torch, asking why someone would do it. The post has since received thousands of impressions and hundreds of comments from Gold Coast locals.

This incident is part of a concerning trend in rising crime rates across the Gold Coast, with many crimes attributed to young offenders. These teens often target cars and personal belongings, rather than intending to harm residents. While it’s reassuring to know that physical harm is not usually their goal, it’s important to remain vigilant and take steps to protect your home.

What You Can Do to Stay Safe:

Always be aware of unusual objects or signs near your property.
Remove any suspicious items like bricks or markers immediately.
Ensure your home is secure, with doors and windows locked, even when you’re home.
Install outdoor lighting or security cameras to deter potential offenders.
Keep valuables out of sight from windows.

If you notice suspicious activity in your area, contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au. You can also reach out to the Queensland Police Service via Policelink at 131 444 for non-urgent matters.

The Gold Coast Torch is committed to keeping our community informed and safe. Stay alert, and don’t hesitate to report anything unusual. Together, we can work to reduce crime and protect our neighbourhoods.