Cathedral City Neighborhood Takes Action After String of Crimes

A sixty-four year old man remains hospitalized after a home intruder stabbed him multiple times.

It happened early Saturday morning at the 37200 block of Melrose Drive in Cathedral City. When officers arrived, they found the victim bleeding profusely from several stab wounds. The victim advised officers he confronted an intruder at his residence and was assaulted with a sharp object.

People that live in the same neighborhood are concerned for their safety.

They say that crimes have become commonplace recently. The rise in crime has them on heightened alert.

“We’ve gotten to the point where we pull the blinds shut at night while we’re watching TV,” said Ben Ponzio. “We can’t leave a window open while we’re sitting in the house, afraid someone’s going to come up the back. Every time you hear a noise or you hear the dogs barking in the neighborhood, you wonder if it’s someone coming back trying to break in or cause somebody some harm.”

In an effort to prevent future crimes, they are taking matters into their own hands.

“We’re going to put together a neighborhood watch. We have an alarm system, we’re going to beef up our alarm system. Our neighbors are going to beef up their alarm system,” said Ponzio. “And, it’s sad to say but you know what, thinking about going and registering and getting a gun, and so is my neighbor. I don’t want to live like that, I’ve never had to live like that.”

Cathedral City Police are still on the lookout for the stabbing suspect. He is described as 5’10”-6’02” in height; and about 180-210 pounds in weight. The suspect possibly has several injuries to his face or head.

If anyone has further information regarding this incident please call the Cathedral City Police Department at (760) 770-0303.