Ulex is a great anti-personnel plant Web Link

Ulex--Golden Gorse-is an attractive plant with thorns would indeed deter a criminal. I left Scotland, where it is quite common, so many years ago that I had quite forgotten about it. Thanks for the reminder, 'Whatever.' Now I need to research how to grow it successfully in our climate.

I concur that cameras are a wonderful and vital way to approach the problem of prowlers and burglars. My housekeeper spotted a young man prowling around my home and together she and I watched him on the computer screen at my desk. We used the loudspeaker and microphone to shout at him to get out of my garden. He ran like a scared rabbit. This took place on a regular weekday morning. My property is walled and gated, but a vigorous youngster can hoist himself over a high wall with little problem, unfortunately. I also like the idea of the floodlights that are activated by movement, a valuable option for night times.

Last Saturday I spotted a black Toyota with 2 men parked in front of my house...taking photos. Drove next door. Stopped again. They're no real estate agents...casing the neighborhood looking for a burglary opportunity.
C'mon back guys...you can take a picture of me and Mr. Colt.

Here's a solution. Get rid of all your stuff you think is valuable, move to a less wealthy neighborhood, and get to know your community. This might be the solution to living in fear and then considering shooting people.

@really.... you remind me oif the protest against 1%... Keep in mind anyone who makes more that $50k a year as a family is in the 1% worldwide. So yes, I assume if you live in the bay area 0- the total household income is greater than $50k (total)
@Memberone - so did you call the cops - if not, shame on you as you just told them your neighbors are not as vigilant.
@June - I hope you sent that to the cops....
Folks, I am not all about the cops, but if you do not let them know and show them the evidence, guess what....

All you have to do is leave out a plate of brownies, using a recipe from a former mayor, and when you wake up in the morning the burglar(s) will be sound asleep on the kitchen floor. Of course you may have to restock your refrigerator and pantry. But that is a small price to pay to protect your precious art work and jewelry.

I hope that June gave her trusty housekeeper a bonus!

Do none of these people have dogs?