Police: Stay Vigilant in Midst of Residential Burglaries

The and township committee are asking residents to be vigilant after there has been a string of residential burglaries in Lacey Township.

“The department is following several leads but is asking all residents to be aware of suspicious individuals or vehicles,” Chief William Nally said in a letter to the committee. “Contact the police department immediately if you see anything.”

Over a two-and-a-half month period, there have been 18 break-ins, Nally reported.

Many of the break-ins have been in the area of the railroad right of way since it goes through the center of town and is wooded, Committeeman Gary Quinn said.

“It’s been difficult finding out who’s creating the problem, who’s doing the break-ins,” he said.

Police are investigating the burglaries, which all have similar entries, Nally said. Objects from outside the homes are being utilized to break a window or a door. The burglars are primarily seeking jewelry.

“They’re very quick,” Quinn said. “They’re getting into the house, grabbing the jewelry and they’re out as quick as they were in.”

Dogs and security systems haven’t deterred the burglars either, Quinn said.

“Residents should take extra caution to make sure their home appears occupied when they’re out,” Nally said.

Quinn is asking residents to be aware of the surroundings and stay on the lookout for neighbors.

“We need every little bit of help we can get from the residents,” he said. “This is something you can get involved in and try to help your neighbor.”

“It may be drug related. Maybe it’s economy related. It doesn’t make a difference to me,” Committeeman Sean Sharkey said. “Maybe today it’s your neighbor. Tomorrow it can be you. Be vigilant. Please keep your eyes open.”

If you see anything suspicious in your neighborhood, dial 9-1-1 immediately. The Lacey Township Police Department can also be reached at (609) 693-6636.

Burglary Prevention Tips:

• Make your home appear occupied—leave lights on when you go out.
• Make it difficult to break in—lock all doors and windows before leaving home or going to sleep; keep your garage door closed and locked.
• Don’t allow mail and newspapers to build up while you’re away. Arrange for the Post Office to hold your mail and a neighbor to collect your newspapers.
• Arrange for your lawn to be mowed if you are away for an extended period of time.
• Special locks are available for better security—sliding glass doors and pushbutton locks or doorknobs are vulnerable.
• Don’t tempt a thief—store valuable items out of sight, use curtains, etc.

For more tips on burglary prevention, other precautions that should be taken, and what to do if your home has been broken into, click here.